Sign in
Sign up

Plasma Physicist

Physicists
Description
Investigate the behavior of ionized gases in laboratory, industrial, space, and fusion environments; develop and validate plasma theories and models; and devise methods to control and apply plasmas and electromagnetic fields.
  • • Perform complex kinetic, fluid, and electromagnetic calculations and analyze plasma data using high-performance computing.
  • • Express observations and conclusions in mathematical and computational formulations of plasma dynamics and instabilities.
  • • Analyze diagnostic data from Langmuir probes, Thomson scattering, spectroscopy, interferometry, and magnetic probes to determine plasma parameters.
  • • Report experimental and simulation results through journal papers, technical reports, and conference presentations.
  • • Develop and run plasma simulations (MHD, PIC, gyrokinetic) to model confinement, transport, and wave-particle interactions.
  • • Collaborate on the design, development, and testing of plasma devices, diagnostics, and control systems, including tokamaks, stellarators, thrusters, and pulsed-power facilities.
  • • Operate and troubleshoot plasma sources, magnets, RF and microwave systems, lasers, and vacuum equipment to study and control plasmas.
  • • Develop and validate plasma theory to advance fusion energy, space and astrophysical plasmas, and industrial plasma processing.
  • • Teach plasma physics and mentor students or junior researchers.
  • • Prepare grant proposals and secure funding for plasma and fusion research programs.
Interview options
Interview options
Interviewee gender
Interviewee accent

Available on paid plans only

Interview time
Related Pathways
Advanced Manufacturing View
Energy & Natural Resources View
Public Service & Safety View
Source
Tasks & skills: O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge). Learn more
Sources & Standards: This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
Share this job