Modeling Physicist

LLNL•Princeton, NJ

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory is hiring a Modeling Physicist specializing in edge plasma physics for magnetic fusion energy devices. The role applies numerical simulation expertise to investigate edge fusion plasmas and plasma-surface interactions. Research includes developing edge transport and plasma-surface interaction models and simulations to support 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 in the Spherical Tokamaks Group of the Fusion Energy Sciences Program within the Extreme Light, Matter and Fusion Directorate. The primary work location is Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory in Princeton, New Jersey. The successful candidate will conduct and analyze edge plasma simulations, compare results across two-dimensional, multi-fluid edge plasma codes, and work with a team to compare simulations with experimental data. The role also involves developing models, publishing and presenting research, pursuing complementary independent research interests, and collaborating with scientists inside and outside the Laboratory. Assignments must follow environmental, safety and health, security, and business practice requirements and policies. This is a career-indefinite position open to Laboratory employees and external candidates. No security clearance is required, though access restrictions and background-check requirements may apply in specified circumstances. External applicants selected for the position 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 necessary to collaborate and work in a team environment.
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 the 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 simulations 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 research 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 and health, security, and business practice requirements and policies.
Perform other duties as assigned.