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Grid CyberInfrastructure Lab (GridCI)
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Research Mission
The GridCI Lab develops open-source computational tools and methods for next-generation power systems. Through projects like ANDES and PowerCyber Training, we create accessible, reproducible, and efficient platforms that serve both power system research and education.
Current Research
Our research bridges power systems with advanced computation:
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High-Performance Power System Analytics: We develop symbolic-numeric methods and parallel computing algorithms to accelerate power system simulation. Our ANDES platform (4000+ commits) provides an open-source foundation for research reproducibility.
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Digital Twins for Power Electronics-Dominated Grids: We build real-time simulation models combining testbeds with advanced numerical methods, enabling high-fidelity studies of converter-grid interactions.
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AI-Enhanced Grid Operation: We integrate physics-based modeling with machine learning to address emerging challenges in renewable integration, EV charging, and data center power management.
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Research Software Engineering: We create open-source tools and educational platforms (PowerCyber) that make advanced power system analysis accessible to researchers and students.
Lab Members
Current Members
Ph.D. Students
Ahmad Ali
Ahmad Ali received his master’s degree in electrical engineering from Oklahoma State University in 2024. He received his bachelor’s degree from the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Pakistan. He is currently a PhD student at NC State University. His primary research interests focus on the analysis and simulation of modern power systems. He is particularly interested in the theoretical and computational aspects of dynamical analysis of bulk power systems.
Join Us
We welcome students with a genuine interest in electrical engineering and computer software who are self-motivated. Successful candidates typically have backgrounds in power systems, power electronics, control, and automation, along with a solid math foundation and demonstrable programming skills. Knowledge of machine learning is a plus. Contact Dr. Cui with your CV and research interests, highlighting relevant experience.
The GridCI Lab is part of the NC State ECE Department. Prospective students should apply through the department’s graduate admissions process.
Ph.D. Students
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Domestic students (U.S. permanent resident or citizen): We encourage you to reach out to Dr. Cui to discuss your research interests and background before applying. This helps ensure alignment with our lab’s focus areas.
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International students: We welcome applications through the NC State ECE graduate program. While we receive many inquiries and may not respond to all emails, we carefully review all complete applications. Candidates with M.S. degrees are preferred, though exceptional students with bachelor’s degrees are also considered.
M.S. Students
Research positions are available, but funding is limited for international students. For domestic NC State MS-EPSE students interested in research, there may be potential for funding. Please reach out to discuss opportunities.
Undergraduate Researchers
We always have positions available for motivated undergraduates. Please email Dr. Cui to schedule a meeting and discuss potential projects.
Postdoctoral Scholars
We welcome candidates with demonstrated research experience in power system stability, dynamics, simulation, and related fields. Our lab values rigorous, innovative work that advances the field and creates lasting impact. If you are passionate about developing next-generation power system solutions and share our commitment to excellence, please contact Dr. Cui with your CV and research statement.