Javad Lavaei works in the intersection of control theory, power systems, and optimization theory. The focus of his current research is the development of optimization techniques specialized for energy systems (e.g., smart grid) with the aim of solving hard nonconvex problems such as the 50-year-old optimal power flow problem. In the past, he has also worked on the application of control and optimization in communications, circuits, networks, and computer science. View more details of his research. His teaching plan is to develop several fundamental courses in the two areas of power systems and control theory, neither of which exist in the current curriculum of the EE Department. He will offer the new course "Power Systems Analysis" in Spring 2013.
