Experimental Plasma Physics - Postdoctoral Researcher

LLNL; Harvard (MA); On-site; USD 110,743 - 135,352; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible schedules

Job summary

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher in edge plasma physics for magnetic fusion devices. The position focuses on diagnostic design, construction, calibration, operation, and interpretation in collaboration with engineering teams to understand power handling challenges in fusion devices.

The project includes implementing infrared diagnostics for measurements inside the SPARC tokamak under construction by Commonwealth Fusion Systems, and

Qualifications

• PhD in plasma physics or engineering or related field.
• Knowledge of basic plasma physics.
• Experience in experimental measurements in plasma devices.
• Documented publication record in peer reviewed literature and experience presenting results to a large audience.
• Experience carrying out independent research and working in a multidisciplinary team.
• Proficient verbal and written communication skills for cross-disciplinary work.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research in edge plasma and plasma-surface interaction physics.
• Design, construct, calibrate, operate, and interpret edge plasma diagnostics as part of a team.
• Analyze data to validate models and simulations for fusion devices.
• Publish results in peer-reviewed journals and present at conferences.
• Pursue independent research interests and collaborate across disciplines.

Skills

Plasma physics

Experimental measurements

Publication record

Independent research

Multidisciplinary teamwork

Communication skills

Education

PhD in plasma physics

Tools

Python

IDL

Infrared cameras

Job description

• Full-time
• Organization: Physical and Life Sciences
• Category: Postdoctoral/Fellowship
• Employee Referral Bonus: Not applicable
• Job Code 1: PDS.1 Post-Dr Research Staff 1
• Pre-Employment Drug Test: Required for external applicant(s) selected for this position (includes testing for use of marijuana)
• Pre-Placement Medical Exam: Not applicable
• Security Clearance: None, but work must be performed by a U.S. person (e.g., U.S. citizen or permanent resident and certain others). Also, assignments longer than 179 days require a federal background investigation.
• Position Type: Post Doctoral

Company Description

Join us and make YOUR mark on the World!

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) has turned bold ideas into world-changing impact advancing science and technology to strengthen U.S. security and promote global stability.

Our mission spans four critical national security areas nuclear deterrence, threat preparedness, energy security, and multi-domain defense empowering teams to take on the toughest challenges of today and tomorrow. With a culture built on innovation and operational excellence, LLNL is a place where your expertise can make a real impact.

Job Description

We have an opening for a Postdoctoral Researcher in the field of edge plasma physics for magnetic fusion devices. You will apply expertise in diagnostic design, construction, calibration, operation, and interpretation in collaboration with engineering and experimental teams with the goal to understand challenges with power handling in magnetic fusion devices. The research aims to implement advanced infrared diagnostics and techniques for measurements of temperature and heat flux inside the SPARC tokamak under construction by Commonwealth Fusion Systems, as well as infrared characterization of in-vessel materials to aide in in-vessel infrared interpretation. The work involves planning and integration of the diagnostic into tokamak systems in collaboration with CFS staff, complementing other visible and infrared diagnostics on the machine, as well as operation of advanced characterization tools in a laboratory environment. Regular interaction and close coordination with CFS technical/engineering and scientific staff in a fast-paced environment, and supported by LLNL staff on the project. This position is in the Magnetic Fusion Energy Spherical Tokamaks group, Fusion Energy Sciences Section of the Physics Division. The primary work location will be at Commonwealth Fusion Systems in Devens, Massachusetts.

This position requires full-time on-site presence due to the nature of the work.

You will

• Conduct research in the area of edge plasma and plasma-surface interaction physics.
• Work as a team member to design, construct, calibrate, operate, and interpret edge plasma diagnostics.
• Analyze data to contribute to validation of theoretical models and simulations for fusion devices.
• Document and publish research results in peer reviewed scientific or technical journals and present results at external conferences, seminars and/or technical meetings.
• Pursue independent (but complementary) research interests and interact with a broad spectrum of scientists and engineers internally and externally.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Work must be performed by a U.S. person (e.g., U.S. citizen or permanent resident and certain others). Also, assignments longer than 179 days require a federal background investigation.
• PhD in plasma physics or engineering or related field.
• Knowledge of basic plasma physics.
• Experience in experimental measurements in plasma devices.
• Documented publication record in peer reviewed literature and experience presenting research results to a large audience.
• Experience carrying out independent research and work effectively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Proficient verbal and written communication skills necessary to work in a multidisciplinary team environment, author technical and scientific reports and publications, and deliver scientific presentations.
• Experience working independently and in a team environment to achieve program goals in a timely fashion.

Qualifications We Desire

• Knowledge of edge plasmas in fusion devices.
• Experience with diagnostic hardware design and implementation in a scientific setting.
• Experience with data analysis programming languages, such as Python and IDL.
• Familiarity with imaging and spectroscopic edge plasma diagnostic techniques.
• Experience with infrared cameras and optics.

Pay Range

$123,048 Annually

Position Information

This is a Postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of extension to a maximum of three years, open to those who have been awarded a PhD at time of hire date.

Additional Information

Why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory?

• Included in 2026Best Places to Work by Glassdoor!
• Flexible schedules (*depending on project needs)

We are an equal opportunity employer that is committed to providing all with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, protected veteran status, age, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws.

Reasonable Accommodation

Our goal is to create an accessible and inclusive experience for all candidates applying and interviewing at the Laboratory. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or the recruiting process, please use our online form to submit a request.