Dr. Robert A. Ellis Fellowship

Overview

The Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) seeks doctoral thesis students who are enthusiastic, passionate and have a deep interest in pursuing a career in fields such as plasma physics, fusion science, computational science, chemical and material science, and related fields of engineering. This prestigious fellowship, which advances the values of scientific excellence and leadership, is generally a two-year funded term to conduct full-time doctoral research in residence at PPPL, with the potential for a third year to support degree completion. Continuation is contingent upon satisfactory performance, availability of funding and programmatic need.

Fellowship awards are subject to the availability of a project mentor; therefore, applicants are encouraged to develop project ideas as early as possible with PPPL research experts on a thesis topic of mutual interest to the student’s home institution and PPPL for the purpose of collaboration. The fellow will have the opportunity to pursue collaborative research in a U.S. DOE National Laboratory and will receive mentorship, training, professional development and outreach opportunities, building a sense of community with PPPL and Princeton University colleagues in support of launching an impactful scientific career.

We are looking for two Dr. Robert A. Ellis Fellows.

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 70 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

• Core Duties:
• To advance doctoral thesis research on a collaborative project relevant to PPPL’s mission.

Qualifications

• Education and Experience:

• Graduate students enrolled in a doctoral program at an accredited U.S. university in fields such as plasma physics, fusion science, computational science, chemical and material science, and related fields of engineering.

• Students are required to be in their third or fourth year, have achieved Ph.D. candidacy, and are in the independent research phase of their doctoral program.

• The student and primary adviser from the home institution are responsible for ensuring that the support required to maintain full-time graduate enrollment status during the award period (tuition, fees, etc.) is provided. Please note: For tuition coverage, the Ellis Fellowship Program does not provide restrictions on source, and universities are permitted to leverage funds at their discretion to include institutional or department reserves, philanthropic contributions, state or federal grants including funds that may be provided by PPPL or another National Laboratory as a flow-through from the DOE.

• The student must maintain health insurance coverage for the duration of the fellowship.

• Open to U.S. Citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents that are 18 years of age or older at the time of application.

• To ensure consideration for the fellowship, applications should be submitted no later than January 31, 2027.

• Standard Weekly Hours

• 40.00

• Eligible for Overtime

• Yes

• Benefits Eligible

• No

• Probationary Period

• N/A

• Essential Services Personnel (see policy for detail)

• No

• Physical Capacity Exam Required

• No

• Valid Driver's License Required

• No

• LI-BH1

• Salary Range

• $55,440 to $55,440