Associate Research Physicist

US-NJ-Princeton

Job ID: 2020-11958
Type: Full-Time
# of Openings: 1
Category: Research and Laboratory

Princeton University

Overview

Associate Research Physicist: Theoretical and Experimental Study of Edge Rotation and Radial Electric Field

The Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is a world-class fusion energy research laboratory managed by Princeton University for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science. PPPL is dedicated to developing the scientific and technological knowledge base for fusion energy. The Laboratory advances the fields of fusion energy and plasma physics research to develop the scientific understanding and key innovations needed to realize fusion as an energy source for the world.

PPPL is seeking a full-time scientist to theoretically and experimentally study the edge toroidal rotation and radial electric field. This position is at the rank of Associate Research Physicist (equivalent to a postdoctoral position).

The edge rotation and radial electric field are believed to strongly affect edge stability and transport properties, which are of critical importance for the viability of fusion energy. The successful applicant will work closely with PPPL theorists and experimentalists to compare theoretical models of edge rotation and radial electric field with experimental data from NSTX, NSTX-U, and DIII-D. The work will include data analysis and theoretical interpretation, in addition to the possible planning and execution of new experiments as needed. The successful candidate will be expected to develop, present, and publish novel physical results resulting from the work.

Responsibilities

• Experimental investigation of rotation with intrinsic and NTV torque on NSTX, NSTX-U, and/or DIII-D (33%)
• Theory-experiment comparison for edge rotation including the effects of neutrals, using NSTX, NSTX-U, and DIII-D archival and new data as available (33%)
• Theory-experiment comparison of measured edge radial electric field with predictions using the generalized orbit-modulation model (33%)

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• Applicant should have a Ph.D. in plasma physics or a closely related discipline.
• A strategic goal of PPPL is diversifying the community of scientists and engineers, ensuring equitable access, and making the STEM fields more accessible and inclusive. With this in mind, we will take into consideration equivalent work and personal experiences as well as efforts in education, outreach or other related service activities.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Required:
  • Strong aptitude in data analysis and theoretical interpretation
  • English communication and writing skills
  • English communication and writing skills are required.
• Desirable"
  • Familiarity with models of tokamak edge physics
  • Experience with experimental diagnostics relevant to edge rotation and electric field, including charge-exchange spectroscopy, Langmuir probes, and gas-puff imaging

Other:

• Qualified applicants should apply and send a curriculum vitae and bibliography. Three letters of recommendation will be requested from finalists. Letters can be mailed to T. Stoltzfus-Dueck, Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, James Forrestal Campus, P.O. Box 451, Princeton, NJ 08543 or emailed to tstoltzf@pppl.gov.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action 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. EEO IS THE LAW

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.

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