POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE, Plasma Science and Fusion Center (PSFC), to carry out fundamental and applied research supporting the SPARC and ARC tokamaks, two devices expected to lead to deployment of fusion as an economic energy source.  The work will primarily focus on the development of data-driven and physics-based models (and their integration) to predict instabilities for SPARC. These interpretable algorithms will need to interface with SPARC’s Pulse Planning framework and with the Disruption Mitigation System to optimize plasma performances and reduce the number of unmitigated disruptions.  Will conduct innovative research dedicated to the integration of high-fidelity 3D magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) simulations in machine learning models trained with experimental data; interface with broader teams studying disruptions and MHD stability at MIT and collaborating institutions; make original research contributions to the PSFC program; produce work for publication and present at scientific conferences; and mentor graduate and undergraduate students. 

REQUIRED:  Ph.D. in plasma physics or closely related field; broad knowledge of tokamak physics; experience conducting original scientific research and publishing in scientific journals; experience with version control, programming skills, and programming language knowledge such as Python; ability to communicate effectively and work with staff and students from MIT, other universities, national laboratories, and private industry; and ability to work in a dynamic, fast-paced team-oriented environment.  PREFERRED:  experience with advanced statistical tools, database analysis, and machine learning; experience analyzing data at scale (including their assembly and curation) from tokamaks and understanding disruptive instabilities and their relative measurements.  Job #23752

In addition to applying via the MIT website, applicants are asked to email (with “PA Postdoc Application” in the subject line) a cover letter, CV, and the names and contact information of three references to Dr. Cristina Rea at crea@psfc.mit.edu.

The initial appointment is for one year but is renewable based upon satisfactory performance. 

This position is eligible for visa sponsorship.

Employment is contingent upon the completion of a satisfactory background check.

2/20/24