Graduate Researcher

GRAVITI ENERGY is looking to add a Graduate Research / Data Center Cooling Systems Engineer (Intern) 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 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 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
• Assist in developing optimization strategies for:
• load distribution across chillers
• condenser water temperature control
• system-level energy minimization

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

PREFERRED SKILLS:

• Experience with:
• Modelica (strongly preferred)
• 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 race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran, or other characteristics protected by law.

Pay: $20.00 - $60.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Health insurance

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Missouri City, TX 77489

Salary : $20 - $60