Research Associate, Fusion Plasma Gyrokinetics

University of Texas; Utah; On-site; USD 94,000 - 114,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid vacation and sick leave

Retirement plan

Job summary

The University of Texas at Austin seeks a Research Associate in the Institute for Fusion Studies to conduct theoretical and computational research in fusion plasma physics, focusing on gyrokinetic modeling of edge plasmas. The role involves delta-f and full-f gyrokinetic approaches and collaboration with international fusion experiments.

The candidate will interpret simulations alongside experimental data, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and mentor graduate students, contributing to future

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in plasma physics, fusion science, or closely related field.
• Several years of post-Ph.D. research experience in plasma physics or a closely related area.
• Demonstrated ability to carry out innovative research in fusion plasma physics.
• Strong record of publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Experience with theoretical and/or computational approaches to magnetic-confinement fusion research.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and ability to work effectively in collaborative research environments.

Responsibilities

• Conduct original theoretical and computational research in fusion plasma physics, with emphasis on gyrokinetic simulations of edge plasmas.
• Apply delta-f and full-f, cross-separatrix gyrokinetic models to study turbulence, transport barriers, and scrape-off-layer physics.
• Use theory and simulation to interpret experimental observations from U.S. and international magnetic-confinement fusion experiments.
• Develop new research topics and capabilities that complement and expand existing programs within IFS.
• Publish research results in peer-reviewed journals and present findings at scientific conferences and workshops.
• Mentor and collaborate with graduate students and other junior researchers.
• Contribute to development of research proposals and grant applications as PI/Co-PI or key personnel.
• Develop productive collaborations with other IFS researchers, faculty, and external collaborators.

Skills

Gyrokinetic modeling

Strong writing

Collaborative research

Publication record

Theoretical & computational physics

Education

PhD in plasma physics or fusion science

Tools

Gyrokinetic codes

Large-scale plasma codes

Job description

The University of Texas at Austin seeks a Research Associate in the Institute for Fusion Studies to conduct theoretical and computational research in fusion plasma physics, focusing on gyrokinetic modeling of edge plasmas. The role involves delta-f and full-f gyrokinetic approaches and collaboration with international fusion experiments.

The candidate will interpret simulations alongside experimental data, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and mentor graduate students, contributing to future