Assistant Professor of Electrical Engineering Yuri Rodrigues

Yuri Rodrigues

Assistant Professor of Electrical Engineering

Email: yrodrigues@spu.edu
Phone: 206-281-2385
Office: Otto Miller Hall 207


Education: BS, Federal University of Itajuba (Brazil), 2015; MS, Federal University of Itajuba, 2017; PhD, University of British Columbia, 2021. At SPU since 2021.

Dr. Yuri Rodrigues specializes in power systems, renewable energy integration, transportation electrification, and embedded system design. Before joining SPU, he worked as a researcher in Canada and Brazil, contributing to advancements in power system resilience and electric vehicle hosting capacity. He continues to collaborate on industry-sponsored projects and standard developments, including efforts to enhance grid resilience through NERC and FERC initiatives, serving on the technical advisory board for Seattle City Light (SCL), and as an active senior member on IEEE working groups.

At SPU, Dr. Rodrigues teaches courses in power systems, microgrids, electronics, and engineering design. He believes in hands-on, real-world learning that enables students to break down complex engineering problems and develop solutions that are both practical and ethically responsible. His teaching approach integrates project-based learning with a focus on developing critical thinking, teamwork, and the practical application of theory.

His research interests include dynamics, control, and analysis of microgrids and active distribution networks, advanced monitoring through phasor measurement units, renewable generation integration, power system short- and long-term stability, and engineering education. He also mentors students and leads discussions on the intersection of faith, technology, and engineering.

Outside of academia, Dr. Rodrigues lives life with the warmth and vibrancy of his Brazilian heritage. Coffee is an essential part of his day — any kind, any time. Football transcends being just a sport — it is woven into the fabric of his life. Meals are never just about food — they are opportunities to gather, connect, and share. He thrives in the company of those who value meaningful connections and thoughtful discussions. Whether debating the perfect churrasco, savoring a plate of pão de queijo, or delving into deep conversations about faith, purpose, and the role of engineering.

Above all, Dr. Rodrigues cherishes family, and his students are an integral part of his extended family. He takes immense pride in mentoring them, watching them grow in confidence, challenge their own limits, and realize their potential to change the world.

Please see Dr. Rodrigues’ CV (PDF) for more information.


Selected Publications

  • Monteiro, L.F.; Rodrigues, Y.R.; Souza, A.C.Z.; “Empowering Microgrids for Sustainable Transportation Electrification: A Comprehensive Methodology for Resource Adequacy and Grid Resilience,” Electr. Power Syst. Res., vol. 239, 111176, Feb. 2025.
  • Srivastava, A.; et. al., “Distribution System Behind-the-Meter DERs: Estimation, Uncertainty Quantification, and Control, IEEE Trans. Power Syst., vol. 40, no. 1, pp. 1060-1077, May. 2024.
  • Monteiro, L.F.; Rodrigues, Y.R.; Souza, A.C.Z.," Cybersecurity in Cyber–Physical Power Systems," Energies, vol. 16, n. 10, 4556, Jun. 2023.
  • Vilaisarn, Y.; Rodrigues, Y.R.; Abdelaziz, M; Cros, C., "A Deep Learning based Multi-Objective Optimization for the Planning of Resilience Oriented Microgrids in Active Distribution System," IEEE Access, vol. 10, pp. 84330-84364, Aug. 2022.
  • Rodrigues, Y.R.; Abdelaziz, M.; WANG, L.; Kamwa, I., "PMU Based Frequency Regulation Paradigm for Multi-Area Power Systems Reliability Improvement," IEEE Trans. Power Syst., vol. 36, no. 5, pp. 4387-4399, Sep. 2021.
  • Rodrigues, Y.R.; Abdelaziz, M.; Wang, L., "Resilience-Oriented D-PMU based Frequency Controller for Islanded Microgrids with Flexible Resources Support," IEEE Trans. Power Deliv., vol. 36, no. 4, pp. 2320-2331, Aug. 2021.
  • Rodrigues, Y.R.; Abdelaziz, M.; Wang, L., "D-PMU Based Distributed Voltage and Frequency Control for DERs in Islanded Microgrids," IEEE Trans. Sustain. Energy, vol. 12, no. 1, pp. 451-468, Jun. 2020.
  • Rodrigues, Y.R.; Abdelaziz, M.; Wang, L., "D-PMU Based Secondary Frequency Control for Islanded Microgrids," IEEE Trans. Smart Grids, vol. 11, no. 1, pp. 857-872, Jan. 2020.
  • Monteiro, M.R.; Rodrigues, Y.R.; Abdelaziz, M.; Wang, L.; Souza, A.C.Z., "Area-Based Voltage Stability Support Using Flexible Resources," Electr. Power Syst. Res., vol. 186, Sep. 2020, Article 106384.
  • Monteiro, J.R.; Rodrigues, Y.R.; Monteiro, M.R.; Souza, A.C.Z.; Fully, I.L.; “Intelligent RMPS Allocation for Microgrids Support during Scheduled Islanded Operation”, IEEE Access, vol. 8, pp. 117946-117960, Jun. 2020.
  • Monteiro, M.R.; Alvarenga, G.F.; Rodrigues, Y.R.; Souza, A.C.Z.; Lopes, B.I.L.; Passaro, M.; Abdelaziz, M., "Network partitioning in coherent areas of static voltage stability applied to security region enhancement," Int. J. Electr. Power Energy Syst, vol. 117, May 2020, Article 105623.

 

Why I Teach at SPU

Yuri Reis Rodrigues, assistant professor of electrical engineering

SPU offers a unique platform to advance both academic excellence and innovation. With a focus on critical thinking, collaboration, and ethical problem-solving, I am able to mentor students who not only excel in their fields but also become purposeful leaders dedicated to creating positive, lasting changes in society.