Post Doctoral Fellow - Department of Physics and Astronomy

Clemson University; Clemson (SC); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Clemson University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Department of Physics and Astronomy. The position focuses on theoretical and computational plasma physics, including kinetic simulations and analysis of reconnection in weakly collisional plasmas, with collaboration with NASA's MMS mission.

A PhD in physics or a related field is required, and strong computational skills are essential. The successful candidate will work closely with the Cassak group, interact with graduate

Qualifications

• PhD in Physics or closely related field by start of appointment.
• Strong background in computational plasma physics and kinetic theory.
• Experience with particle-in-cell simulations preferred.
• Ability to work independently and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team.

Responsibilities

• Conduct theoretical and computational research on plasma physics topics described by the PI.
• Perform kinetic simulations and theoretical analyses; collaborate with NASA MMS observers.
• Publish results and present at internal and external meetings.
• Mentor/engage with graduate students in the group.

Skills

Computational plasma physics

Particle-in-cell

Independent research

Team collaboration

Scientific writing

Education

PhD in Physics/Plasma/Space Physics

Tools

PIC simulations

Job description

Post Doctoral Fellow - Department of Physics and Astronomy

Clemson University: College of Science: Physics & Astronomy

Location: 310C Kinard Lab

Open Date: Feb 27, 2025

Description Dr. Paul Cassak invites applications for a postdoctoral fellow at the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Clemson University. This position comes with a competitive salary in a region with a relatively low cost of living, university benefits, and travel funds for conferences. This position is to perform research in theoretical and computational plasma physics, with a focus on out of local thermodynamic equilibrium (LTE) energy conversion during collisionless magnetic reconnection through the pressure-strain interaction term and/or the structure and evolution of kinetic entropy in reconnection and turbulence in weakly collisional plasmas. The postdoctoral researcher will use kinetic simulations and analytical theory, and closely collaborate with observers from NASA's Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) mission. Postdocs will have the opportunity to interact with graduate students in a collaborative environment. About the PI Lab & Department:The research of the Cassak group is in theoretical and computational plasma physics with an emphasis on space and solar physics. Numerical techniques employed by the Cassak group include primarily kinetic approaches but also include the fluid approach when needed. The group has close connections with colleagues that employ satellite observations and laboratory experiments in their research. The Clemson University atmospheric and space physics group is described at https://www.clemson.edu/science/academics/departments/physics/research/atmos.html. Other research areas in the Department of Physics and Astronomy include Astronomy and Astrophysics; Atomic, Molecular, and Optical physics; Biophysics; and Condensed Matter Physics. Clemson University is a land grant university enrolling approximately 23,000 students. Clemson University's Carnegie Classification is R1 ("Doctoral Universities - Very High Research Activity") and is ranked in the top 50 of public universities in the US. Clemson was named "the Best Small College Town in the U.S." for 2024. It is 45 minutes from Greenville, which is in top 5 of the US News & World Report's Best Places to Live in the US in 2024.

Qualifications A successful candidate must have completed the requirements for a PhD in Physics, Plasma Physics, Space Physics, or a related discipline by the beginning of the appointment. Expertise in computational approaches to simulate kinetic plasmas, preferably the particle-in-cell technique, is strongly preferred. A solid background in plasma physics theory is strongly preferred. Evidence of the following abilities and skills will be beneficial: Potential to pursue independent research, ability to work as part of a team, skilled at identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions, ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong, ability to document and present the results of research, ability to write presentations and articles for publication that conform to prescribed style and format, ability to make effective presentations on complex topics to technical and non-technical audiences, ability to deal with nonverbal symbolism (formulas, scientific equations, graphs, etc.), ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form, ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions, ability to meet deadlines, and ability to collaborate effectively with a multidisciplinary team of co-investigators from diverse backgrounds.

Clemson University is an EEO/AA employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to characteristics protected by applicable law including disability and protected veteran status.