Experimental Plasma Physics - Postdoctoral Researcher

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory; Harvard (MA); On-site; USD 104,591 - 141,505; Full time

Job summary

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in Devens, MA seeks a Postdoctoral Researcher in edge plasma physics to work on infrared diagnostics for SPARC tokamak experiments. On-site requirement; collaborating with engineering and scientific teams to integrate diagnostics into fusion devices and advance temperature and heat-flux measurements.

The position emphasizes design, calibration, operation, and interpretation of diagnostics, data analysis, and publication of results in peer‑reviewed journals.

Qualifications

• PhD in plasma physics or related field; publication record preferred.
• Experience with experimental measurements in plasma devices.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research in edge plasma and plasma‑surface interaction physics.
• Design, construct, calibrate, operate, and interpret edge plasma diagnostics.
• Analyze data to validate theoretical models and simulations for fusion devices.
• Document and publish research results in peer‑reviewed journals and present at conferences.
• Develop independent complementary research interests and collaborate across scientific areas.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Plasma physics

Experimental measurements

Publications

Data analysis

Verbal and written communication

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in plasma physics or related field

Tools

Python

IDL

Infrared diagnostics

Job description

Postdoctoral Researcher – Edge Plasma Physics – Devens, MA – Full-time – Posted 07/21/2026

Job Description

We have an opening for a Postdoctoral Researcher in edge plasma physics for magnetic fusion devices. Your role will involve design, construction, calibration, operation, and interpretation of advanced infrared diagnostics for temperature and heat‑flux measurements inside the SPARC tokamak under construction by Commonwealth Fusion Systems. You will collaborate with engineering, experimental, and scientific teams, contributing to the integration of diagnostics with tokamak systems and performing advanced characterization in a laboratory environment. Full‑time on‑site presence in Devens, MA is required.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research in edge plasma and plasma‑surface interaction physics.
• Design, construct, calibrate, operate, and interpret edge plasma diagnostics.
• Analyze data to validate theoretical models and simulations for fusion devices.
• Document and publish research results in peer‑reviewed journals and present at conferences.
• Develop independent complementary research interests and collaborate across scientific areas.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• U.S. person (citizen or permanent resident) required; assignments longer than 179 days require a federal background investigation.
• PhD in plasma physics, 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.
• Experience carrying out independent research and working effectively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Proficient verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience working independently and in a team to meet program goals on time.

Desired Qualifications

• Knowledge of edge plasmas in fusion devices.
• Experience with diagnostic hardware design and implementation.
• 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 (salary range based on competencies, experience, location, performance, and business needs).

Additional Information

#LI-Onsite

Position Information

This is a Postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of extension to a maximum of three years. Applicants must have a PhD awarded by the hire date.

Pre-Employment Drug Test

External applicants selected for this position must pass a pre‑employment drug test, including testing for marijuana.

Equal Opportunity Employer

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.

Privacy Notice

The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) grants privacy rights to all California residents. The law also entitles job applicants, employees, and non‑employee workers to be notified of what personal information LLNL collects and for what purpose. The Employee Privacy Notice can be accessed here.