Staff Research Scientist - Tokamak Experimental Science

Overview

The Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) seeks a Research Staff Scientist in assignment at the DIII-D fusion facility in San Diego, California. Joining a multidisciplinary team, the scientist will advance real-time plasma exhaust monitoring and control for fusion devices, developing feedback-control capabilities using physics-based and AI state estimation, implementing applications within the Plasma Control System (PCS), and integrating high-resolution diagnostics. The candidate will leverage novel real-time diagnostics and control tools to advance core-edge integrated scenarios in DIII-D, KSTAR, and other international devices.

A U.S. Department of Energy National Laboratory managed by Princeton University, the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is tackling the world’s toughest science and technology challenges using plasma, the fourth state of matter. With more than 70 years of history, PPPL is a leader in the science and engineering behind the development of fusion energy, a potentially limitless energy source. PPPL is also using its expertise to advance research in the areas of microelectronics, quantum sensors and devices, and sustainability sciences. Whether it be through science, engineering, technology or professional services, every team member has an opportunity to contribute to our mission and vision. Come join us!

Responsibilities

Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory has an open position for a research staff scientist on assignment at DIII-D tokamak fusion facility. The candidate will join a dynamic team of scientists with diverse expertise working to advance real-time plasma exhaust monitoring, state estimation, and control for core-edge integration in fusion devices. The successful candidate will develop and deploy real-time feedback-control capabilities on DIII-D for plasma exhaust control, including divertor detachment and related edge-plasma applications. This involves utilizing physics-based and AI-driven state estimation, diagnostic degradation/failure mitigation, and reduced-diagnostic approaches for control applications. The position includes the implementation of diagnostic and control applications within the Plasma Control System (PCS), the integration of high-resolution real-time diagnostics and imaging data into the PCS, and the extension of the associated real-time computing infrastructure. The successful candidate will also lead real-time diagnostic and control activities on the KSTAR tokamak and other magnetic fusion devices, including execution of experimental campaigns.

Conduct research and disseminate results in the form of talks, posters, and refereed journal articles, as well as eventual patents, resulting from the conducted research, in particular regarding real-time plasma exhaust diagnostics and control, plasma state estimation, and deployment of diagnostic and control applications for experimental fusion devices. Develop and/or implement high-temporal-resolution real-time plasma diagnostics, including real-time plasma imaging. Interface with PCS development groups at DIII-D and KSTAR for implementation of real-time computing systems and software relevant to the research.

Qualifications

Minimum 3 years' experience post-PhD. Applicants must have a Ph.D. in plasma physics, nuclear engineering, or a related field. Strong analytical and English communication skills are required.

Experience with real-time diagnostic development, PCS application development and deployment, knowledge of real-time computing systems and data streaming, and AI/ML model development for real-time diagnostic and control applications is strongly preferred.

Expertise in feedback control of plasma exhaust, including divertor detachment and related edge-plasma applications, with demonstrated application on multiple fusion devices, along with the ability to lead and conduct experimental sessions, is strongly preferred.

The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.

Periodic international travel in support of activities at the KSTAR and other facilities is foreseen.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.

If the salary range on the posted position shows an hourly rate, this is the baseline; the actual hourly rate may be higher, depending on the position and factors listed above.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information.

Please be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from participation in certain foreign government talent recruitment programs. All PPPL employees are required to disclose any participation in a foreign government talent recruitment program and may be required to withdraw from such programs to remain employed under the DOE Contract.

Standard Weekly Hours 40.00

Eligible for Overtime No

Benefits Eligible Yes

Probationary Period 180 days

Essential Services Personnel (see policy for detail) No

Physical Capacity Exam Required No

Valid Driver's License Required No

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Salary Range $111,400 to $178,000