Postdoctoral Research Associate in Computational Fusion Plasma Physics, Turbulence, Fast-Ion Transport, and AI-Enabled Modeling

Job no

504020

Work type

Exempt Staff Full-time

Location

Bethlehem

Categories

Postdoc

The Lehigh University Plasma Control Laboratory invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position in computational fusion plasma physics. The successful candidate will join the Lehigh University Plasma Control Group (LU-PCG) and contribute to research on turbulent transport, energetic-particle physics, predictive modeling, and AI-enabled digital twins for magnetically confined fusion plasmas in tokamaks. The research will combine high-fidelity simulations, reduced transport modeling, experimental validation, and machine learning.

A key feature of this position is the opportunity to collaborate with major U.S. and international fusion facilities (such as DIII-D, NSTX-U, KSTAR, WEST, and ITER) and contribute to LU-PCG’s research under the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) GENESIS Mission, including scientific machine learning, surrogate development, and integrated core-edge simulation and control. This role offers a unique opportunity to work with Professors Eugenio Schuster and Tariq Rafiq in the field of computational fusion plasma physics, engage in cutting-edge research, build a larger and stronger professional network, and gain experience in mentorship and academic service.

Position Number

: RC1460

Anticipated Salary

$63,480 - $90,000 (based on qualifications and experience) + Benefits.

Key Responsibilities

The incoming postdoctoral researcher will work on fundamental and applied research in computational fusion plasma physics, turbulence, fast-ion transport, and AI-enabled modeling. The researcher will lead or contribute to key research activities within the LU-PCG, advancing integrated modeling and control for magnetically confined fusion plasmas in tokamaks. Specific responsibilities include:

* Perform global CGYRO simulations to investigate turbulence spreading and nonlo