OverviewThe Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) seeks exceptional postdoctoral researchers with demonstrated leadership potential to play a major role in contributing to PPPL strategic priorities and opening new research directions at our national laboratory. Selected fellows will serve as Associate Research Scientists and will have the opportunity to conduct impactful research at a world-leading research institution.
Prioritized research areas include:Applied Materials and Electromanufacturing- Advancing plasma processing science and electrified manufacturing technology
- Using high performance computing, machine learning and advanced numerical schemes for accelerating low temperature plasma simulations
- Understanding the science of electrochemical, pulsed electrical heating and plasma-assisted catalysis and chemical synthesis
Fusion Science and Technology- Developing gyrotron and next-generation beam technologies to push the frontier of plasma performance
- Engineering radiation-hardened robotics and sensor systems for remote maintenance and reliable fusion operations
- Advancing the technical readiness of liquid metals for plasma-facing components and developing state-of-the-art models and theory for edge plasmas
- Contributing to the vibrant scientific research programs on domestic and international tokamak collaborations, with near-term focus on WEST and JT-60SA
- Understanding and predicting confinement in high beta plasmas typical of spherical tokamaks, including boundary physics and integrated control scenarios for NSTX-U
- Contributing to the optimization of tokamak and stellarator design
Artificial Intelligence- Developing advanced artificial intelligence / machine learning (AI/ML) solutions for fusion science and operations
- Building and applying foundation models and surrogate models to speed analysis and optimize performance
- Designing and maintaining digital twins of fusion devices, including autonomous control systems, to accelerate discovery, enhance reliability and reduce operational costs
Discovery Plasma Science- Understanding fundamental plasma processes: magnetic reconnection, shocks, instabilities and turbulence and dynamos
- Increasing understanding of high-energy-density (HED) plasma processes including processes relevant to magnetized HED phenomena and inertial fusion energy
- Advancing the science and technology of low-temperature plasmas and diagnostics for fundamental plasma science and for applications such as propulsion
Successful candidates will work with researchers at PPPL and may also propose to join one or more of the range of scientific collaborations in which PPPL scientists participate. Fellows will lead, publish, present and disseminate innovative and impactful research results relevant to the scientific and research diversification goals of PPPL. Fellowship recipients are subject to the availability of a project mentor, so applicants are encouraged to develop project ideas as early as possible with PPPL research experts.
To ensure consideration for the fellowship, complete applications should be submitted no later than Jan. 31, 2027.
Fellowship recipients must be able to start the fellowship position no later than September 2027.
This position is a 3 year term assignment, renewable each year. PPPL strives to identify funding for a minimum of a 2 year term commitment
Responsibilities
Lead, publish, present and disseminate innovative and impactful research results relevant to the PPPL's mission.
Qualifications
Education and Experience
- PhD. conferred within five years at the time of application or completion of Ph.D. requirements by commencement of appointment.
- PhD. in plasma physics, fusion science, engineering (e.g., nuclear, mechanical, electrical, materials, chemical, systems), computer science (e.g., advanced computing and AI for Science), physical chemistry, applied mathematics, or a related field.
- Experience in topical area(s) aligned with PPPL's mission.
- Evidence of academic achievement with potential for scientific and strategic leadership.
Knowledge, Skills and bilities (including unique software/hardware requirements)
- Demonstrated technical and scientific excellence, high quality publication record, strong communication and presentation skills, skills to help advance an engaged workforce, ability to work effectively in a team environment, leadership potential, and strategic thinking and planning skills.
Standard Weekly Hours
40.00
Eligible for Overtime
No
Benefits Eligible
Yes
Probationary Period
180 days
Essential Services Personnel (see policy for detail)
No
Estimated Appointment End Date
4/12/2030
Comments Related to End Date
These dates are subject to change depending on when candidate starts so timelines can shift.
Physical Capacity Exam Required
No
Valid Driver's License Required
No
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Salary Range
$95,800 to $153,000
