Postdoctoral Research Associate, MPEX Boundary and PMI Modeling

Oak Ridge National Laboratory; Oak Ridge (TN); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) invites applications for a Computational Physicist to model plasma transport and plasma-material interactions in the MPEX facility, within the PEPC group of the Fusion Energy Division.

You will use 3D boundary plasma simulations and collaborate with experimental teams to optimize device performance for upcoming campaigns; the role requires a PhD and experience with boundary physics and codes such as EMC3‑EIRENE, SOLPS, UEDGE or SOLEDGE, plus Python, MATLAB,

Qualifications

• PhD in Plasma Physics, Electrical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or closely related field completed within the last 5 years, or expect to complete a PhD by June 30, 2027.
• Experience with boundary and divertor plasma physics, and in the use of EMC3-EIRENE, SOLPS, UEDGE, SOLEDGE, or similar.
• Programming in Python, MATLAB, Fortran, C++ and other science-relevant languages.
• Ability to work independently and in a team, manage priorities, and adapt to changing needs.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills for reports, proposals, and presentations.

Responsibilities

• Perform interpretive 3D boundary plasma simulations to inform RF power coupling and PMI target conditions.
• Integrate boundary plasma simulations with impurity transport models.
• Conduct predictive modeling to guide design of new MPEX target geometries.
• Validate simulation results against experimental data and constrain inputs.
• Collaborate with diagnosticians, theorists, and experimental plasma physicists.
• Publish high-impact research results and present at conferences.

Skills

Boundary plasma physics experience

3D boundary plasma simulations

Python

MATLAB

Fortran

C++

Strong communication skills

Education

PhD in Plasma Physics or closely related field

Tools

EMC3-EIRENE

SOLPS

UEDGE

SOLEDGE

Job description

Overview

We are seeking a Computational Physicist to carry out modeling of plasma transport and plasma-material interactions (PMI) in the Materials Plasma Exposure eXperiment (MPEX), a high-flux superconducting linear plasma facility nearing completion at ORNL. The candidate will utilize state-of-the-art 3D plasma boundary simulation tools as part of the MPEX Whole-Device Model, working closely with the experimental team to understand this device’s PMI physics and optimize performance of the device in its upcoming campaigns. The position resides in the Power Exhaust and Particle Control (PEPC) group of the Fusion Energy Division at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. The PEPC group performs experimental and modeling work, focused on the boundary region of tokamaks, stellarators, and linear devices, for present‑day and future fusion facilities worldwide.

Major Duties/Responsibilities

• Perform interpretive three-dimensional boundary plasma simulations of MPEX, in order to inform and optimize radiofrequency (RF) power coupling, PMI target conditions, and overall device performance in preparation for early device operations.
• Integrate boundary plasma simulations with impurity transport models to assess the production and transport of in-vessel impurities in MPEX operating scenarios.
• Perform predictive modeling to inform the design of new MPEX target geometries, with a focus to improve access to divertor-relevant target exposure conditions.
• Validate simulation results against experimental data and constrain code inputs to reduce uncertainty in predictions for future experiments and guide improvements to the physics model.
• Work closely with teams of diagnosticians, theorists, applied mathematicians, and experimental plasma physicists.
• Create high impact research results to report in peer-reviewed journals and present at scientific conferences.
• Maintain commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of ORNL values and ethics.
• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace - in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

Basic Qualifications

• PhD in Plasma Physics, Electrical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or a closely related field completed within the last 5 years, or expect to complete a PhD by June 30th, 2027.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with boundary and divertor plasma physics, and in the use of a code such as EMC3-EIRENE, SOLPS, UEDGE, SOLEDGE, or similar.
• Experience with plasma-material interactions, including models for sputtering, impurity transport, and sheath physics.
• Programming experience in Python, MATLAB, Fortran, C++ and other science relevant languages.
• Ability to work individually and/or as part of a team, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever‑changing needs.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills supporting regular interactions with fellow research staff, peer reviewers, research sponsors, and to prepare reports, proposals, and presentations.

Special Requirements

• This is a temporary 24‑month position. The appointment length will be up to 24 months with the potential for extension. Initial appointments and extensions are subject to performance and availability of funding.
• For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real ID compliant form of identification will be required. Additionally, ORNL is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which requires a favorable post-employment background investigation.
• To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.
• If you have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, you are not eligible for the PIV credential and instead will need to obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) risk determination to maintain employment. Once you meet the three‑year residency requirement, you will be required to obtain a PIV credential to maintain employment.

About ORNL

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation’s most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well‑being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on‑site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.

Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.

ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.