Careers at Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory

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, the processes that power the stars, as an energy source for the world. The Engineering Directorate at PPPL is a multidisciplinary team focused on developing the engineering designs for, and advancing the state-of-the-art of, magnetic confinement plasma physics research devices around the world. We specialize in diagnostics, high-field magnets, heating sources, plasma facing components, and digital/virtual engineering. for nuclear fusion experiments at PPPL and collaborator facilities world-wide. Mechanical (solid mechanics and fluid dynamics), electromagnetic, thermal, and material engineering challenges, and radiation effects are routinely encountered simultaneously in PPPL engineering diagnostics projects. PPPL engineers develop novel solutions to the engineering challenges of fusion and plasma physics and collaborate with the Research team to develop new research directions, core capabilities, and experimental devices. A proud U.S. Department of Energy National Laboratory managed by Princeton University, Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is a longstanding leader in the science and innovation behind the development of fusion energy — a clean, safe, and virtually limitless energy source. With an eye on the future and in response to national priorities, PPPL also has begun a strategic shift from a singular focus on fusion energy to a multi-focus approach that includes microelectronics, quantum information science, and sustainability science. Whether it be through science, engineering, technology or professional services, every team member has an opportunity to make their mark on our world. PPPL aims to attract and support people with a rich variety of backgrounds, interests, experiences, and cultural viewpoints. We are committed to equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility and believe that each member of our team contributes to our scientific mission in their own unique way. Come join us!

Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory Apprenticeship is the first-in-the-nation registered apprenticeship program in fusion energy and engineering. It is designed to equip the next generation of technicians with the skills necessary to help build and operate a fusion energy experiment. A PPPL Apprenticeship is an industry-driven, high-quality career pathway for high school graduates, veterans, and others looking to join this exciting endeavor. The Cryogenics/Superconducting magnet apprentice program shall be considered completed when the apprentice has satisfactorily completed each of the competencies listed below and the related technical instruction. The program leads to a portable, nationally recognized credential and a possible career at our national laboratory. The apprentice will receive pay and benefits, as well as all the RTI is fully paid for by PPPL. High temperature superconductors (HTS) are identified as the potential “game changer” for reducing fusion device size by increasing the allowable magnetic field, current density, and operating temperature. The use of high performance superconducting magnets for higher fusion power density is necessary both to improve magnet efficiency and to increase integrated system performance in a compact fusion power plant design concept. HTS magnets for fusion are multidisciplinary in nature. Training of the next generation workforce involves highly specialized skill sets and in-depth knowledge and experience in superconductivity, materials science, nuclear engineering as well as cryogenics, and related very low temperature processes such as advanced refrigeration and cryogenic cooling techniques.Are you interested in joining the world's brightest talent on solving some of the world’s grandest scientific challenges of the 21st century? Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is doing just that! Whether it be through science, engineering, technology or professional services, every team member has an opportunity to make their mark on our world. PPPL aims to attract and support people with a rich variety of backgrounds, interests, experiences, and cultural viewpoints. We are committed to equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility and believe that each member of our team contributes to our scientific mission in their own unique way. Come join us!