Computational Scientist/Software Engineer

The Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is a world-class fusion energy research laboratory managed by Princeton University for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science. PPPL is dedicated to developing the scientific and technological knowledge base for fusion energy. The Laboratory advances the fields of fusion energy and plasma physics research to develop the scientific understanding and key innovations needed to realize fusion as an energy source for the world.

We are looking for a Software Engineer to work on tokamak simulators based on the equilibrium and transport solver TRANSP. TRANSP is used worldwide for the analysis and modeling of tokamak plasma discharges, for planning experimental campaigns, and for designing future fusion devices. The TRANSP development team neeeds the junior developer to assist with the modernization and modularization of the code base towards the development of the simulator platform.   

We are currently undertaking a major effort in expanding the physics scope of the code, as well as in the modernization and modularization of the code towards a community-based platform for a tokamak simulator. TRANSP is evolving towards compatibility with the ITER Modeling and Analysis Suite, thus activities along the modularization of the code will focus on enabling this compatibility. The candidate will work closely with physicists to re-write the physics modules for efficiency and compatibility with modern architectures.

Education and Experience: 

• Master’s degree in Physics, Applied Mathematics, or Computer Science with at least two years' relevant experience
• Bachelor's degree in Applied Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, and Computer Science with at least four years'relevant experience will be considered in lieu of a Master's degree.
• Must have programming experience in C/C++, CUDA and Python
• Familiarity with HDF5 format
• Working knowledge of the Git version-control system is highly preferred 
• Familiarity with Fortran would be greatly beneficial.

Knowledge. Skills and Abilities: 

• Must have demonstrated experience working in a research-oriented environment
• Technical knowledge of numerical analysis, parallel computing, and software development on Linux-based systems.
• Experience with large-scale scientific computing in plasma physics is highly desirable.
• Must be team-oriented, possess good communication and interpersonal skills, and demonstrate a willingness to learn.

The work location is Princeton (NJ), but flexible work conditions will be considered.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer 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. EEO IS THE LAW

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.