Undergraduate Research Intern in HED and IFE

Overview

The undergraduate research intern in HED and IFE project supports a research effort to develop a laser-driven alpha-particle source for investigating charged-particle transport and energy deposition in high-energy-density plasmas. The intern will work with a multidisciplinary research team to model the transport and energy selection of laser-driven alpha particles. Using Monte Carlo particle-transport simulations, the intern will investigate how particle energy, energy spread, divergence, source size, and selector geometry affect energy resolution and transmission efficiency. The student will contribute to the development and optimization of an advanced alpha-particle selector and help establish design requirements for future experiments. In addition, the student will have an opportunity to participate in a hands-on experiment at a world-class petawatt laser facility. This work is relevant to inertial fusion energy, plasma physics, particle-beam transport, and diagnostic development.

A U.S. Department of Energy National Laboratory managed by Princeton University, the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is tackling the world’s toughest science and technology challenges using plasma, the fourth state of matter. With more than 75 years of history, PPPL is a leader in the science and engineering behind the development of fusion energy, a potentially limitless energy source. PPPL is also using its expertise to advance research in the areas of microelectronics, quantum sensors and devices, and sustainability sciences. Whether it be through science, engineering, technology or professional services, every team member has an opportunity to contribute to our mission and vision. Come join us!

Responsibilities

The key responsibilities for this position will be:

1. Conduct Monte Carlo simulations of alpha particle transport through magnetic energy- selection systems

2. Model the effects of particle energy, energy spread, divergence, source size, and charge state on selector performance.

3. Evaluate key performance parameters, including energy resolution, transmission efficiency, particle losses, and temporal dispersion.

4. Participate in a relevant experiment on alpha particle generation and selection at international laser user facility.

5. Analyze simulation results and compare them with analytical estimates and available experimental data

6. Support the development and optimization of an advanced alpha particle selector design.

7.Perform parameter scans to determine how selector geometry and field configuration affect particle trajectories and energy selection

1. Participate in regular research meetings and collaborate with members of the experimental and computational teams.

2. Present research progress and results through technical presentations and a written final report.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• Must be an undergraduate student

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities(including unique software/hardware requirements):

1. Undergraduate coursework in physics, engineering, applied mathematics, or computer science.

2. Basic understanding of classical mechanics and electromagnetism.

3, Experience with scientific programming in Python, MATLAB, C++, or a similar

language.

1. Ability to analyze numerical data and create clear scientific plots

2. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a research team.

3. Prior experience with Monte Carlo methods, particle-transport software, or CAD tools is helpful but not required

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity Employer (https://rrr.princeton.edu/eop) and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.

If the salary range on the posted position shows an hourly rate, this is the baseline; the actual hourly rate may be higher, depending on the position and factors listed above.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link (https://hr.princeton.edu/benefits-overview-prospective-candidates) for more information.

Please be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from participation in certain foreign government talent recruitment programs. All PPPL employees are required to disclose any participation in a foreign government talent recruitment program and may be required to withdraw from such programs to remain employed under the DOE Contract.

Standard Weekly Hours

40.00

Eligible for Overtime

Yes

Benefits Eligible

No

Probationary Period

N/A

Essential Services Personnel (see policy for detail)

No

Estimated Appointment End Date

1/29/2027

Comments Related to End Date

This is a 2-month internship

Physical Capacity Exam Required

No

Valid Driver's License Required

No

#LI-BV1

Salary Range

$23 to $23

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Princeton University is anEqual Opportunity Employer (https://rrr.princeton.edu/eop) and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Princeton University-PPPL job offers are contingent upon the candidate’s successful completion of a background check, reference checks, and pre-employment screening, as applicable.

PPPL is aU.S. Department of Energy (DOE) national laboratory (https://www.energy.gov/national-laboratories) managed by Princeton University. The DOE prohibits DOE employees and contractors from participation in certain foreign government talent recruitment programs. All PPPL employees are required to disclose any participation in a foreign government talent recruitment program and may be required to withdraw from such programs to remain employed under the DOE Contract.

Princeton University-PPPL is a residential community and an employer that operates continuously 24 hours a day. Essential services employees perform jobs that are necessary and required to maintain basic University operations during scheduled closures or unscheduled suspension of normal operations due to emergencies, events, or other situations. Essential services employees may be asked and/or required to perform jobs or duties that fall outside of their normal job classification during an emergency event. Learn more about ourEssential Services policy (https://hr.princeton.edu/policies/essential-services-during-emergencies-or-other-conditions) .

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Requisition #2026-22458

Date Posted1 day ago(10/28/2026 9:53 AM)

Department PPPL Discovery Plasma Science

Category Research and Laboratory

Job Type Temporary