Modeling Physicist

Job Description

We have an opening for a Modeling Physicist in the field of edge plasma physics for magnetic fusion energy devices.  You will apply expertise in numerical simulation to understand problems in edge fusion plasmas and plasma-surface interactions. The research aims to develop new edge transport and plasma-surface interaction models and simulations in support of experiments in the National Spherical Tokamak Experiment in Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory, Mega-Ampere Spherical Tokamak Upgrade in Culham Centre for Fusion Energy in Culham, the UK, the SPARC tokamak at Commonwealth Fusion Systems in Devens, Massachusetts and in support of future lithium divertor concepts. This position is in the Spherical Tokamaks Group, Fusion Energy Sciences Program of the Extreme Light, Matter and Fusion Directorate.

The primary work location will be at Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory in Princeton, New Jersey.

In this role, you will

• Conduct research in edge plasma simulations, analyze simulation results, and provide physics understanding of results.
• Conduct in-depth data analysis and compare simulation results across two-dimensional, multi-fluid edge plasma codes to evaluate model behavior, consistency, and physical accuracy.
• Work as a team member to guide and compare simulation and existing experimental data.
• Collaborate in the development of new edge plasma physics and plasma-surface interaction models.
• Document and publish research results in peer-reviewed scientific or technical journals and present results at external conferences, seminars and/or technical meetings.
• Pursue independent (but complementary) research interests and interact with a spectrum of scientists internally and externally.
• Perform all assignments in accordance with ES&H, security, and business practice requirements and policies.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• PhD in plasma physics, related technical discipline or the equivalent combination of education and relevant previous experience.
• Advanced experience and knowledge in magnetic confinement fusion edge plasma physics and plasma-surface interaction physics.
• Advanced experience and knowledge in numerical simulations and modeling methods.
• Advanced experience and knowledge of magnetic confinement fusion plasma codes.
• Advanced verbal and written communication skills necessary to work in a multidisciplinary team environment, author technical and scientific reports and publications and deliver scientific presentations.
• Experience working independently with minimal direction and effective interpersonal skills necessary to collaborate and work in a team environment.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience with developing and implementing edge plasma physics models.
• Experience with 2D edge plasma codes, e.g., UEDGE, SOLPS, EDGE2D, EMC, EIRENE, ERO.
• Experience with data analysis tools and algorithms in Python, Matlab, or similar language.
• Knowledge of tokamak operation and interpretation of experimental data.
• Knowledge of edge plasma diagnostic techniques and atomic physics.

Pay Range

$175,530 - $222,564 Annually

This is the lowest to highest salary we would pay for this role at the time of this posting; pay will not be below any applicable local minimum wage.  An employee’s position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to, specific competencies, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, and business or organizational needs.

Additional Information

#LI-Onsite

Position Information

This is a Career Indefinite position, open to Lab employees and external candidates.

Why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory?

• Included in 2026 Best Places to Work by Glassdoor!
• Flexible Benefits Package
• 401(k)
• Relocation Assistance
• Education Reimbursement Program
• Flexible schedules (*depending on project needs)
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Security Clearance

None required.  However, if your assignment is longer than 179 days cumulatively within a calendar year, you must go through the Personal Identity Verification process.  This process includes completing an online background investigation form and receiving approval of the background check.  

National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)

The 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), Section 3112, generally prohibits citizens of China, Russia, Iran and North Korea without dual US citizenship or legal permanent residence from accessing specific non-public areas of national security or nuclear weapons facilities.  The restrictions of NDAA Section 3112 apply to this position.  To be qualified for this position, Candidates must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with Section 3112.

Pre-Employment Drug Test

External applicant(s) selected for this position must pass a post-offer, pre-employment drug test. This includes testing for use of marijuana as Federal Law applies to us as a Federal Contractor.

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