Computational Research Scientist (Two-Dimensional Materials and Low-Pressure Processing Plasma)

U.S. Fusion Energy; Princeton (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) seeks a Computational Research Scientist to advance modeling capabilities for processing two-dimensional materials using low-temperature plasmas. The role emphasizes ab initio MD, DFT calculations, and machine-learning potentials to accelerate research and inform design of processing technologies.

The successful candidate will publish results, collaborate across academia and industry, and contribute to proposal ideas to secure future funding.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Physics, Engineering or a related field with core training in low-temperature plasma physics and high-performance computing.
• Minimum 3 years of professional experience in an academic, scientific, or R&D environment.
• A proven track record of publishing original results in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Demonstrated collaborative experience within academia and with industry.

Responsibilities

• Application of ab initio molecular dynamics to low-temperature plasmas for processing of two-dimensional materials and associated technologies.
• The capabilities will be deployed for optimization of processing techniques of these materials.
• The candidate will be responsible for contributing to ongoing project on processing of two-dimensional materials based on transit metal dichalcogenides (50%).
• Defining and delivering on A.I. projects for low-temperature plasmas (20%).
• Proposal ideation and preparation (10%).
• Modeling plasma processing for industry partners (20%).
• Publishing scientific results and dissemination at major international conferences (10%).

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Education

Ph.D. in Physics/Engineering or related field

Tools

First-principles methods

Density Functional Theory (DFT)

Molecular Dynamics (MD)

Job description

Computational Research Scientist (Two-Dimensional Materials and Low-Pressure Processing Plasma)

Requisition # 2026-22118

Date Posted 2 months ago(8/12/2026 8:59 AM)

Department PPPL Appl Mat & Sustainblty Sc

Category Research and Laboratory

Job Type Full-Time

Overview

The Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is seeking to appoint a Computational Scientist to contribute to the advancement of modeling capabilities and physics research pertaining to using low-temperature plasmas for processing of two-dimensional materials and associated technologies. The primary responsibility of this position involves conducting and facilitating computational modeling of processing of 2D materials by low-temperature plasma for the purposes of scientific discovery and engineering design of these processes. The successful candidate will achieve this objective through the application of density functional theory (DFT) modeling of these processes using ab initio molecular dynamics (MD), and the utilization of machine learning potentials for MD acceleration.

The candidate should have strong practical familiarity with MD simulations and band gap structure calculations of 2D material properties and connection to experimental measurements. Furthermore, the candidate should demonstrate substantial practical knowledge of 2D material properties and techniques employed in plasma processing, coupled with a proven track record of modeling of such discharges. The results will be disseminated to the broader academic and industrial communities, necessitating strong interpersonal and communication skills to cultivate these relationships. Finally, this role will encompass the conceptualization and preparation of novel proposal ideas to secure funding for future research projects.

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

Application of ab initio molecular dynamics to low-temperature plasmas for processing of two-dimensional materials and associated technologies. The capabilities will be deployed for optimization of processing techniques of these materials. The candidate will be responsible for contributing to ongoing project on processing of two-dimensional materials based on transit metal dichalcogenides (50%). Defining and delivering on A.I. projects for low-temperature plasmas (20%). Proposal ideation and preparation (10%). Modeling plasma processing for industry partners (20%). Publishing scientific results and dissemination at major international conferences (10%).

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Physics, Engineering or a related field with core training in low-temperature plasma physics and high-performance computing.
• Minimum 3 years of professional experience in an academic, scientific, or R&D environment.
• A proven track record of publishing original results in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Demonstrated collaborative experience within academia and with industry.

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Extensive practical experience using first-principles methods to study materials relevant to microelectronics, quantum devices, and plasma assisted processing, including ab