Modeling Physicist

LLNL•Boston, MA

2d•$175,530 - $222,564•Onsite

About The Position

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory is hiring a Modeling Physicist to conduct research in edge plasma physics for magnetic fusion energy devices. The role applies numerical simulations to problems in edge fusion plasmas and plasma-surface interactions, developing new models and simulations in support of experiments at the National Spherical Tokamak Experiment, the Mega-Ampere Spherical Tokamak Upgrade, and the SPARC tokamak, as well as future lithium divertor concepts. The position is part of the Spherical Tokamaks Group in the Fusion Energy Sciences Program of the Extreme Light, Matter and Fusion Directorate. The primary work location is Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory in Princeton, New Jersey. The physicist conducts and analyzes edge plasma simulations, compares results across two-dimensional multi-fluid edge plasma codes, and works with colleagues to compare simulations with experimental data. The role also involves developing edge plasma physics and plasma-surface interaction models, publishing and presenting research, pursuing complementary independent research, and collaborating with scientists internally and externally. Assignments must comply with environmental, safety, health, security, and business practice requirements and policies. This is a career-indefinite position. No security clearance is required, although assignments longer than 179 days cumulatively within a calendar year require Personal Identity Verification and an approved background check. The position is subject to access restrictions under Section 3112 of the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act. External applicants selected for the role must pass a post-offer, pre-employment drug test.

Requirements

PhD in plasma physics or a related technical discipline, or an 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 for multidisciplinary teamwork, authoring technical and scientific reports and publications, and delivering scientific presentations.
Experience working independently with minimal direction.
Effective interpersonal skills to collaborate and work in a team environment.
Candidates must be eligible to access the Laboratory in compliance with Section 3112 of the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act.

Nice To Haves

Experience developing and implementing edge plasma physics models.
Experience with two-dimensional edge plasma codes such as UEDGE, SOLPS, EDGE2D, EMC, EIRENE, or ERO.
Experience with data analysis tools and algorithms in Python, Matlab, or a similar language.
Knowledge of tokamak operation and interpretation of experimental data.
Knowledge of edge plasma diagnostic techniques and atomic physics.

Responsibilities

Conduct research in edge plasma simulations, analyze simulation results, and provide physics understanding of results.
Perform 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 results with existing experimental data.
Collaborate in developing new edge plasma physics and plasma-surface interaction models.
Document and publish research results in peer-reviewed scientific or technical journals.
Present results at external conferences, seminars, and/or technical meetings.
Pursue independent but complementary research interests and interact with scientists internally and externally.
Perform assignments in accordance with environmental, safety, health, security, and business practice requirements and policies.
Perform other duties as assigned.