UROP Research Mentor Project Submission Portal: Submission #1348

Research Mentor Information
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Primary Research Mentor Name: Ravikumar Gelli
Research Mentor Preferred Pronouns: Dr., Prof.,
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Contact Email (FSU Email if affiliated): rgelli@fsu.edu
Position Title: Faculty
FSU College (if applicable): FAMU-FSU College of Engineering
FSU Department or Non-FSU Organization Affiliation: Electrical and Computer Engineering
Headshot (optional): https://cre.fsu.edu/system/files/webform/urop_project_proposal_portal/21336/Gelli.jpeg

Additional Research Mentor(s)
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Overall Project Details
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Title of the Project: Smart Grids + Artificial Intelligence: Powering the Future with Data and Machine Learning
Project Keywords: Applied Artificial Intelligence (AI), Data Science, and Energy Systems (Smart Grids, Power Grids, Renewable Energy, Electric Vehicles)
Are you currently looking for research assistants?: Yes
Number of Research Assistants Needed : 6
Relevant Research Assistant Major(s):
Electrical Engineers, Software Engineers, Computer Engineers, Computer Science

Project Location:: The Center for Advanced Power Systems 2000 Levy Avenue Tallahassee, FL 32310
If the project location is off campus, does the research assistant(s) need to provide their own transportation?: Yes
Please select the choice that most accurately describes your expectations for the research assistant(s):: In-person
Approximately how many hours a week would the research assistant(s) need to work?: 5-10 hours a week
Roughly what time frame do you expect research assistant(s) to work?: During business hours
Overall Research Project Description:
This project investigates how Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) can be applied to modern electric power systems, often called “smart grids.” As the grid integrates renewable energy, electric vehicles, and advanced communication systems, AI offers powerful tools for improving reliability, efficiency, and security. Our research focuses on developing AI-driven methods for predicting renewable generation, managing electric vehicle charging, detecting anomalies, and enhancing grid operations. Students will gain exposure to real-world datasets, energy challenges, and emerging technologies at the intersection of AI, data science, and sustainability.

Research Tasks:
Potential tasks include:
(1) Conducting a literature review on AI applications in smart grids, renewable energy, and electric vehicles.
(2) Working with real-world and simulated energy datasets (solar, wind, EV charging, load demand).
(3) Performing data cleaning, preprocessing, and visualization using Python.
(4) Applying and testing machine learning models (classification, regression, clustering, anomaly detection).
(5) Assisting in the development of interactive dashboards to communicate research outcomes.
(6) Supporting technical documentation and preparing figures/tables for research reports or publications.

Skills that research assistant(s) may need::
Required:
Basic programming experience (Python preferred)
Willingness to learn new technical concepts
Strong curiosity and commitment to collaborative research

Recommended:
Familiarity with data science libraries (NumPy, Pandas, Matplotlib, or Scikit-learn)
Introductory knowledge of AI/ML concepts
Interest in renewable energy, sustainability, or power systems


Mentoring Philosophy:
My mentoring approach emphasizes inclusivity, growth, and hands-on learning. I believe undergraduates should be treated as valuable contributors to the research team, not just assistants. I tailor guidance to each student’s background, starting from their current skill level and progressively building confidence and independence.

I encourage students to:
(1) Ask questions and share ideas freely in a supportive environment.
(2) Balance technical skill-building (coding, data analysis, critical thinking) with understanding the big picture of why the research matters.
(3) Take ownership of subprojects that align with their interests, so they see the impact of their work.
(4) Gain exposure to both academic and real-world applications, preparing them for future research, graduate studies, or industry careers.

My ultimate goal is to ensure that every student leaves the project with new technical skills, a stronger sense of confidence, and a clear understanding of how their work contributes to advancing sustainable energy and AI for the public good.

Please provide a link to your publications, a video clip, or a website for your research project (if applicable):: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=GOmssZMAAAAJ&hl=en
Please add any additional information here (if applicable)::
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Are you interested in participating in the UROP Research Mentor Roundtable?: Yes
Roundtable times and Zoom links:
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Roundtable Info:
- Day: Thursday, September 4
  Start Time: 2:00
  End Time: 2:30
  Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/93292513597?pwd=NRvY5jOli8ETIUbWg7coJl1EzCgsIn.1

UROP Program Elements
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Mentor Handbook, FAQs, and Communication: Yes
UROP Performance Evaluation: Yes
Materials Grant: Yes
UROP Poster Presentation: Yes

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Year: 2025
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