Research Scientist 1

MIT • Cambridge, MA

11h • Onsite

About The Position

The Plasma Science and Fusion Center (PSFC) is seeking a Research Scientist 1 to conduct fundamental and applied research in the areas of Disruptions, MagnetoHydroDynamics (MHD) stability and control, and Machine Learning (ML) applications to fusion science and technology. This role involves working as part of the newly established Data Science division at MIT’s PSFC, in collaboration with the Magnetic Fusion Experiments (MFE) and the Theory & Computing divisions. The research will align with the PSFC Disruptions Group. Immediate responsibilities include developing ML-driven use cases for DOE sponsored programs under the direct supervision of the PI, either in the Tokamak Research program or in support of FIRE collaboratives. The position will also contribute to the development of Disruption Prevention, Avoidance, and Mitigation strategies for SPARC and ARC.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Physics, Nuclear Engineering, Plasma Science, or a related field.
• Experience with plasma physics, MHD stability, or fusion energy research.
• Experience with experimental planning, experimental data analysis, and model development and deployment in control systems.
• Familiarity with Machine Learning and data science applications.
• Two years of experience post PhD conducting original scientific research.
• Demonstrated skills in scientific programming (Python preferred).
• Proficiency with common open-source software development practices.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a multi-institutional environment.
• Commitment to mentoring and outreach.
• Ability to deal with confidential information and/or issues using discretion and judgment.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with large-scale data management.
• Familiarity with FAIR data principles.

Responsibilities

• Conduct fundamental and applied research in Disruptions, MagnetoHydroDynamics (MHD) stability and control, and Machine Learning (ML) applications to fusion science and technology.
• Work as a member of the Data Science division at MIT’s PSFC, collaborating with the Magnetic Fusion Experiments (MFE) and the Theory & Computing divisions.
• Conduct research aligned with the PSFC Disruptions Group.
• Develop ML-driven use cases for DOE sponsored programs.
• Contribute to the development of Disruption Prevention, Avoidance, and Mitigation strategies for SPARC and ARC.
• Publish research findings in scientific journals.
• Mentor and engage in outreach activities to support a diverse research community.
• Handle confidential information with discretion and judgment.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees