Graduate Researcher

Job Description

GRAVITI ENERGY is looking to add a Graduate Research / Data Center Cooling Systems Engineer () to our team based at our Houston office, TX (remote possible for candidates). The selected candidate will be engaged in developing code for thermal engineering, HVAC system simulation modeling, and energy optimization of data center cooling systems. The role focuses on developing physics-based models and control strategies for chilled water plants, cooling towers, and economizers using tools such as Modelica and related simulation environments. The candidate will report to their immediate supervisor and work as an integral part of the engineering team to support modeling, simulation, and optimization of cooling systems. The candidate will be given structured guidance and exposure to real-world energy systems and modeling practices.

ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

HVAC & Thermal System Modeling

Develop and analyze models for:

• water-cooled chillers
• cooling towers
• condenser and chilled water loops
• CRAH/CRAC systems
• waterside and airside economizers

Translate real-world data center cooling systems into:

• physics-based models
• performance curve-based models

Build modular component-level models that can be assembled into system-level simulations

Modelica & Simulation

Work with Modelica / Modelica Buildings Library to:

• model HVAC systems, central utility, chiller, and plant configurations
• simulate system dynamics and performance
• analyze system behavior under different operating conditions

Learn and apply:

• equation-based modeling
• acausal system modeling
• component-based system architecture

Control Systems & Sequences

Study and implement control strategies such as:

• Free Cooling (FC)
• Partial Mechanical Cooling (PMC)
• Full Mechanical Cooling (FMC)

Analyze:

• system transitions between operating modes
• control stability and deadband behavior
• impact of control strategies on energy efficiency

Energy Analysis & Optimization

Evaluate system performance using:

• kW/ton
• COP
• PUE

Analyze tradeoffs between:

• chiller loading
• cooling tower performance
• pump energy consumption

Interview Expectation (Important Requirement)

• Candidates must be able to read and understand recent research papers on data center cooling systems and Modelica-based modeling
• Candidates will be evaluated based on their ability to develop code for energy optimization using modelica libraries

QUALIFICATIONS:

Candidates must be pursuing or have completed a Master’s or PhD in:

• Mechanical Engineering
• Thermal Engineering
• Energy Systems
• Building Science
• or related field

Strong understanding of:

• thermodynamics
• heat transfer
• fluid mechanics

Familiarity with HVAC systems, especially:

• chilled water systems
• cooling towers
• heat exchangers

SKILLS:

Experience with:

• Modelica (strongly )
• EnergyPlus / TRNSYS / similar tools

Familiarity with:

• Modelica Buildings Library
• HVAC control systems
• data center cooling systems

Basic programming skills (Python / MATLAB) for:

• data analysis
• model calibration

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to clearly communicate technical concepts

LOCATION:

(Remote or hybrid based on project requirements)

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

GRAVITI ENERGY is an equal employment opportunity employer. Qualified applicants are considered without regard to , , , sex, , , , , , status as a protected veteran, or other characteristics protected by law.