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Research Staff Physicist - Experimental/DiagnosticUS-NJ-PrincetonJob ID: 2024-18775Type: Full-Time# of Openings: 1Category: Research and LaboratoryOverview

Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) seeks a Staff Research Physicist with expertise in low-temperature magnetized plasmas and related low-pressure plasma devices with crossed electric and magnetic fields. The selected candidate will join the PPPL team of experts in the field of low temperature plasmas and will be involved in ongoing research efforts on plasma science and applications to microelectronics, space propulsion, and materials science. Applicants should have a solid background and practical experience in experimental methods for generation and characterization of low temperature plasmas with different degrees of magnetization and extensive experience in plasma diagnostics, including electrostatic probes, optical emission spectroscopy (OES), fast frame imaging and advanced laser diagnostics of plasmas with structured laser beams (e.g. ring-shaped beams). In addition, a theoretical knowledge and demonstrated skills and experience in simulations (fluid and PIC) relevant to low temperature magnetized plasmas are also required. Moreover, a background and experience in development and application of in-situ optical diagnostics (e.g. photoacoustic spectroscopy) for standoff detection of low concentration aerosol-based nanoparticle is highly desirable.

The candidate will be responsible for conducting comprehensive experimental characterization of low pressure magnetized and partially magnetized plasmas guided and supported with modeling, developing control methods of such plasmas and associated instabilities, and developing and implementing novel optical diagnostics of low temperature plasmas for industrial applications.

A proud U.S. Department of Energy National Laboratory managed by Princeton University, Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is a longstanding leader in the science and innovation behind the development of fusion energy — a clean, safe, and virtually limitless energy source. With an eye on the future and in response to national priorities, PPPL also has begun a strategic shift from a singular focus on fusion energy to a multi-focus approach that includes microelectronics, quantum information science, and sustainability science. Whether it be through science, engineering, technology or professional services, every team member has an opportunity to make their mark on our world. PPPL aims to attract and support people with a rich variety of backgrounds, interests, experiences, and cultural viewpoints. We are committed to equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility and believe that each member of our team contributes to our scientific mission in their own unique way. Come join us!

Core Duties:

• * Comprehensive experimental characterization of low temperature plasmas: 30%.
• * Modeling support of experimental efforts: 15%.
• * Development and implementation of control methods: 15%.
• * Development and implementation of diagnostics: 30%.
• * Assisting in proposal writing: 5%.
• * Maintaining the lab safety and housekeeping: 5%.

Education and Experience:

• *

  PhD in Physics.

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  A solid knowledge background and extensive experience in development and applications of

  • Experimental methods for generation and characterization of low temperature magnetized plasmas.

  • Plasma diagnostics, including electrostatic probes, optical emission spectroscopy (OES), fast frame imaging and advanced laser diagnostics of plasmas with structured laser beams (e.g. ring-shaped beams).

• * A theoretical knowledge and demonstrated skills and experience in simulations relevant to low temperature magnetized and partially magnetized plasmas are also required.
• *

  A background and experience in development and application of in-situ optical diagnostics (e.g. photoacoustic spectroscopy) for standoff detection of low concentration aerosol-based nanoparticle is highly desirable.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• *

  Hands on experience with optical hardware including spectrometers, diode lasers, pulsed laser sources (Nd:YAG, Dye lasers), and beam alignment, and imaging including CCD and iCCD cameras, optical filters is required.

• *

  Hands on experience with basic lab equipment including spectrometers, amplifiers, including insulation amplifiers, digitizers and data acquisition boards and relevant software is required.

• *

  Hands on experience with vacuum systems including operation of vacuum pumps, both mechanical fore vacuum and turbomolecular pumps, vacuum valves, gauges and flanges is required.

• *

  Experience in running fluid, hybrid and Particle-in-Cell computational codes is required.

• *

  Experience in development and application of optical diagnostics for high resolution in situ measurements of erosion and deposition due plasma-material interactions is desirable.

Working Conditions:

• * Need to pass training for laser safety training and eye exam to be able to operate the laser of class III and IV.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer - https://rrr.princeton.edu/eop and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. KNOW YOUR RIGHTS - https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2022-10/EEOCKnowYourRightsscreenreader10_20.pdf

Please be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from participation in certain foreign government talent recruitment programs. All PPPL employees are required to disclose any participation in a foreign government talent recruitment program and may be required to withdraw from such programs to remain employed under the DOE Contract.