Plasma Pathways Summer School Project Mentor

The WDTS RENEW Plasma Pathways Summer School (PPSS) is seeking graduate students to mentor a cohort of 15 high school students from Trenton CHS, Ewing High School, Hamilton West High School, Steinert High School, Nottingham High School, and Lawrence High School. The 4-week program in July prepares students for internships by addressing gaps between high school course offerings and the skills/knowledge required for high-level research at the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL). The curriculum is largely project-based and introduces PPPL’s research focuses, including fusion energy, microelectronics, and quantum information science.

A U.S. Department of Energy National Laboratory managed by Princeton University, the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is tackling the world’s toughest science and technology challenges using plasma, the fourth state of matter. With more than 70 years of history, PPPL is a leader in the science and engineering behind the development of fusion energy, a potentially limitless energy source. PPPL is also using its expertise to advance research in the areas of microelectronics, quantum sensors and devices, and sustainability sciences. Whether it be through science, engineering, technology or professional services, every team member has an opportunity to contribute to our mission and vision. Come join us!

Core Duties:

Role Focus:

• Provide consistent mentorship to student teams as they develop and execute a research-based project.

Specific Tasks:

• Work consistently with a student team on a research-based project for the duration of the 4-week program.
• Develop a research-based project with student input that can be delivered within the timeframe of the Summer School.

Shared Expectations:

Mentors are also expected to:

• Help students develop their confidence, STEM identity, and sense of belonging.
• Expand access to PPPL internships.
• Share their research experience, in-depth knowledge of plasma physics, technical work, and personal life "outside" physics.
• Utilize their expertise to teach coding, debugging, advanced math, 3D printing, and the use of AI/machine learning and laboratory techniques in fusion and plasma research.
• Attend 4–6 one-hour planning meetings via conference call leading up to the Summer School (May-June).
• Work as a team with the Master Teacher and other Graduate Student Instructors to develop curriculum.
• Assist participant groups in creating a final presentation.

Time Commitment:

• Expected to be available every afternoon during the 4-week period (July).
  
  

Education and Experience

• Requirements: Enrolled graduate student, access to PPPL, teaching experience, empathy, and cultural competence.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: 

• Required Skills: Research Experience, Tutoring Experience, Other Special Skills (department specifies).
  
  

Working Conditions: 

• Princeton University graduate students must comply with the Graduate School's Employment Policy. 

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity 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.

The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.

If the salary range on the posted position shows an hourly rate, this is the baseline; the actual hourly rate may be higher, depending on the position and factors listed above.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information.

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.