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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.
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Tasks & skills: O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge). Learn more
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
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