Overview
The Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) seeks doctoral thesis students who are enthusiastic, passionate and have a deep interest in pursuing a career in fields such as plasma physics, fusion science, computational science, chemical and material science, and related fields of engineering. This prestigious fellowship, which advances the values of scientific excellence and leadership, is generally a two-year funded term to conduct full-time doctoral research in residence at PPPL, with the potential for a third year to support degree completion. Continuation is contingent upon satisfactory performance, availability of funding and programmatic need.
Fellowship awards are subject to the availability of a project mentor; therefore, applicants are encouraged to develop project ideas as early as possible with PPPL research experts on a thesis topic of mutual interest to the student’s home institution and PPPL for the purpose of collaboration. The fellow will have the opportunity to pursue collaborative research in a U.S. DOE National Laboratory and will receive mentorship, training, professional development and outreach opportunities, building a sense of community with PPPL and Princeton University colleagues in support of launching an impactful scientific career.
We are looking for two Dr. Robert A. Ellis Fellows.
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
Core Duties:
- To advance doctoral thesis research on a collaborative project relevant to PPPL’s mission.
Qualifications
Education and Experience:
- Graduate students enrolled in a doctoral program at an accredited U.S. university in fields such as plasma physics, fusion science, computational science, chemical and material science, and related fields of engineering.
- Students are required to be in their third or fourth year, have achieved Ph.D. candidacy, and are in the independent research phase of their doctoral program.
- The student and primary adviser from the home institution are responsible for ensuring that the support required to maintain full-time graduate enrollment status during the award period (tuition, fees, etc.) is provided. Please note: For tuition coverage, the Ellis Fellowship Program does not provide restrictions on source, and universities are permitted to leverage funds at their discretion to include institutional or department reserves, philanthropic contributions, state or federal grants including funds that may be provided by PPPL or another National Laboratory as a flow-through from the DOE.
- The student must maintain health insurance coverage for the duration of the fellowship.
- Open to U.S. Citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents that are 18 years of age or older at the time of application.
- To ensure consideration for the fellowship, applications should be submitted no later than January 31, 2027.
How to Apply:
Applicants to this fellowship must submit an online application which requires the following materials:
- A letter of intent outlining the proposed scope of research, not to exceed five pages.
- A curriculum vitae including a list of publications (if applicable) and other accomplishments relevant to the fellowship goals.
- Official graduate transcripts and proof of Ph.D. Candidacy.
- Three letters of recommendation, which should include both a letter from a potential PPPL adviser expressing support for the applicant’s research goals and a letter from the student’s thesis adviser from the home institution. The third recommender may be a faculty member or research scientist of your choosing.
Upload the following materials as a single PDF document: Letter of Intent, Curriculum Vitae, Official Graduate Transcripts, Proof of Ph.D. Candidacy, and contact information for three recommenders; please include their full name, institution and email address. We shall contact them directly for their recommendations.
Annual stipend commensurate with the Princeton graduate student research assistantship rate, currently $55,440 but subject to change on an annual basis.
Please direct any questions to ellis_fellowship@pppl.gov.
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
Yes
Benefits Eligible
No
Probationary Period
N/A
Essential Services Personnel (see policy for detail)
No
Physical Capacity Exam Required
No
Valid Driver's License Required
No
Salary Range
$55,440 to $55,440