Staff Research Scientist

Requisition # 2026-21742

Date Posted 19 hours ago (4/20/2026 9:26 AM)

Department: PPPL Tokamak Expermntl Science

Category: Research and Laboratory

Job Type: Full-Time

Overview

Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory has an open position for a research staff scientist onsite at PPPL. The candidate will join a dynamic team of scientists with diverse expertise working to advance understanding and develop new approaches for the problem of wall conditioning in tokamak reactors. The successful candidate will conduct research in plasma boundary physics with emphasis on real-time wall conditioning, impurity injection experiments, and integration of impurity powder dropper and granule injector systems into scenario development and support development of feedback control workflows. The successful candidate will support the development and analysis of diagnostic-driven impurity injection experiments, including long-pulse wall conditioning studies on the KSTAR facility in S. Korea, integration with plasma control systems, and coordinated experiments on other devices, e.g., DIII-D, NSTX-U, and WEST.

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:

• The successful candidate will be responsible for conducting research and disseminating results in the form of talks, posters, and refereed journal articles, principally related to boundary physics with a focus on the effects of impurity injection. Periodic travel to domestic and international facilities will be required.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• Minimum 2-3 years’ experience post PhD.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Applicant should have a Ph.D. in plasma physics, nuclear engineering, or a related field. Strong analytical and English communication skills are required. Experience with experimental fusion boundary physics is required. Expertise in impurity injection techniques, real-time plasma diagnostics, actuator integration, and interpretation of surface science diagnostics is strongly preferred.

Standard Weekly Hours 40.00

Eligible for Overtime No

Benefits Eligible Yes

Probationary Period 180 days

Salary Range $111,400 to $178,000