SPEARS Research Lab
SPEARS: Security, Protection, and Electrification of Advanced Renewable-rich Energy Systems
We develop data-driven and physics-informed methods for protection, monitoring, and control of renewable-rich power Grids, with a focus on Security.
Dr. Amir Ameli
Dr. Ameli is an Associate Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Lakehead University and a licensed Professional Engineer in the province of Ontario. He received his Ph.D. from the University of Waterloo in 2019, where he also completed a postdoctoral fellowship.
His research focuses on cyber-resilient protection of renewable-rich power grids, leveraging data-driven methods, AI-based analytics, and cyber-physical system modelling. He is a Senior IEEE Member and recognised for research excellence and top reviewer contributions.
Read Full BiographyBridging Innovation & Real-World Grid Security
SPEARS Lab develops tools and methods that address the evolving cyber-physical landscape of modern power systems — from advanced cyber-physical security to AI-enabled demand management.
Read more about our researchSelected Publications
Published in top-tier IEEE journals and conferences. Click any paper to view on IEEE Xplore.
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Latest News
Updates on research milestones, awards, publications, and lab events.
Lab Director Promoted to Associate Professor at Lakehead University
The Director of the SPARES Research Lab was promoted to the rank of Associate Professor at Lakehead University.
Lab Director Appointed Adjunct Professor in Computer Science at Lakehead University
The Director of the SPARES Research Lab was appointed as an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Computer Science at Lakehead University.
New Paper Accepted in IEEE Journal of Modern Power Systems and Clean Energy
A new journal paper titled “Detection and Mitigation of False Data Injection Attacks against Frequency Control in Power Grids Integrated with Large-Scale Wind Farms” was
Jeffery Southgate Successfully Defended His MSc Thesis
Jeffery Southgate successfully defended his MSc thesis, concluding his graduate research at the SPARES Research Lab.
Conference Paper Accepted at ICECET 2025
A conference paper titled “Mitigation of Critical Resonance Cyber-Attacks in Renewable Energy Integrated Power Grids” was accepted for presentation at the International Conference on Electrical,
Two Conference Papers Accepted at IEEE IAS Annual Meeting 2025
Two conference papers from the SPARES Research Lab were accepted for presentation at the IEEE IAS Annual Meeting Incorporating the I&CPS-Asia Conference.
Three Conference Papers Accepted at CCECE 2025
Three conference papers from the SPARES Research Lab were accepted for presentation at the Canadian Conference on Electrical and Computer Engineering (CCECE 2025).
New Paper Accepted in IEEE Transactions on Power Systems
A new journal paper titled “Adaptive Dynamic State Estimation in Power Systems with Real-Time Y-bus Matrix Estimation: A Step Toward Greater Practicality” was accepted for
New FRQNT–NSERC NOVA Grant Approved: Cybersecurity for Large-Scale Power Grid Control Systems
A new research project titled “Towards More Resilient Electrical Power Grids: Cybersecurity Mechanisms for Large-Scale Control Systems” was approved for funding by Fonds de recherche
Lab Director Elevated to IEEE Senior Member
The Director of the SPARES Research Lab was elevated to the grade of Senior Member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).
Interested in Joining the Lab?
We welcome motivated graduate students and researchers with a passion for power system protection, cyber-security, and AI-driven solutions. Fill out the form below and we will be in touch.
