Staff Research Scientist at Princeton University – Princeton, New Jersey

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 the application of real-time control systems to experimental fusion systems, including tokamaks and stellarators. The ability to employ AI-enabled solutions and AI-based state estimations, using available diagnostics, will be important elements of this research. The production of high fidelity equilibrium reconstructions for NSTX-U operation, as well as fusion experiments worldwide with which PPPL collaborates, will be an important component of the successful applicant's duties.

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 the development and implementation of control systems.

Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Applicant should have a Ph.D. in plasma physics, nuclear engineering, or a related field, and a minimum of two years’ experience after Ph.D. Strong analytical and English communication skills are required. Experience with software packages such as the Position Control System (PCS) which will be employed for real-time plasma control in NSTX-U, and equilibrium reconstruction packages such as EFIT and TokaMaker is desired. Experience with AI-enabled control of systems is also desired.

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 Drivers License Required
No

Salary Range
$111,400 to $178,000