Sim-to-Real Mismatch-Aware Acquisition for Robust Physics Emulator Generation

Overview

PPPL summer internship program participant.

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:

• This project focuses on developing an autonomous acquisition engine for the SURGE framework to support In-Situ Continual Learning. The intern will design a decision loop that selects optimal simulations or experiments by rigorously balancing Novelty, Uncertainty, and Sim-to-Real Mismatch. The primary goal is to create an algorithm that autonomously detects conflicts between simulation predictions and experimental ground truth, driving physics emulator models to correct their representation of complex regimes.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• Undergrad student.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities:

• This project is ideal for a student interested in Scientific Machine Learning, Control Theory, or Robotics. They will be working on the decision-making logic ("The Navigator") that bridges the gap between simulation and experiment within the SURGE framework.

Working Conditions:

• On-site.

Additional Details

• Requisition #: 2026-21651
• Date Posted: 4 days ago (3/23/2026 8:43 AM)
• Department: PPPL Computational Science
• Category: Research and Laboratory
• Job Type: Temporary
• Standard Weekly Hours: 40.00
• Eligible for Overtime: Yes
• Benefits Eligible: No
• Salary Range: $16.25 Minimum Hourly Rate

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity employer...