Experimental Plasma Physicist

The Pulsed Power Physics Branch, Plasma Physics Division at the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) in Washington, DC advances applications driven by pulsed power technologies, relevant to the Departments of Defense and Energy. The Branch is a 26-member team of PhD physicists, engineers, and specialized pulsed power technicians. We develop high-energy pulsed power systems employing capacitive and inductive energy storage to generate intense high-power, charged particle beams. We provide some of the Nation’s technological basis for intense pulsed radiation sources, high-energy-density plasma experiments, and high-power switching, advancing applications of this technology to areas such as Nuclear Weapon Effects Simulation, Science-Based Stockpile Stewardship, Detection of Nuclear Materials, Electromagnetic Launchers, High-Powered Microwaves, and Inertial Confinement Fusion.

We have continuing and evolving needs for:

1. Experimental plasma physicists
2. Computational plasma physicists
3. Pulsed power engineers
4. Research scientists
5. Current students
6. Interns

For all positions, demonstrated quality communication and writing skills, as well as interest and ability to work as a contributing team member are required. A satisfactory background check is required for initial employment and a security clearance is required for continued employment. Publications and an entrepreneurial attitude are valued in our organization.

Experimental Plasma Physicist – with knowledge and experience in leading research on pulsed power systems, electron-gas interactions, intense charged particle beam diodes, plasma radiation sources, dense plasma focus plasmas, spectroscopy, interferometry, and other associated diagnostics. A PhD in plasma physics or a similar degree is desired.