Domain of Theory and Simulations
The research constitutes the core of a recently funded project focused on the simulation of plasma turbulence in the tokamak boundary, and involves the study of basic plasma physics phenomena at play in this region, the use and refinement of state-of-the-art simulation codes, and comparison with experimental data.
We seek candidates with a background in theoretical plasma physics, preferably with experience in plasma simulations, that have recently obtained a Ph.D. or are near graduation.
For more information, please contact Prof. P. Ricci.
Post-doctoral researcher for diagnostic development and studies of turbulence and transport in the JT-60SA tokamak in Japan
The new superconducting tokamak JT-60SA, at the QST Institute in Naka, Japan, which started operations in late 2023, is the largest tokamak ever operated and an important stepping-stone to ITER and future nuclear-fusion power plants. It is co-owned and co-operated by the European fusion community. A tangential phase-contrast imaging (TPCI) diagnostic is planned for measurements of plasma fluctuations in JT-60SA, based on a collaboration between EUROfusion and Fusion for Energy on one hand and the National Institute for Fusion Science (NIFS) in Japan on the other. EPFL-SPC and NIFS are co-developing the system which is at an advanced design stage, with procurements already begun. The diagnostic is based on the transmission of a CO2 laser beam by the plasma and primarily involves optical techniques and semiconductor detector technology.
EPFL-SPC seeks a post-doctoral researcher to begin working full-time on this project at the earliest possible date. An additional post-doctoral researcher and/or graduate student is also expected to be supplied by NIFS and/or QST to constitute the full-time TPCI team under supervision from two senior scientists at EPFL-SPC and NIFS. The EPFL-SPC position will require travel to and extended stays in Japan, possibly up to 6 months out of the year. Your initial tasks will be to oversee the completion of the design, coordinate and oversee procurements, perform component testing at EPFL, oversee and perform installation and commissioning of components on-site at QST, with a target delivery date of March 2026. Exploitation of the diagnostic in the next operating phase, starting in the first half of 2026, will follow, with participation in physics experiments, data analysis, comparison with theoretical predictions for turbulence, and publication.
Your profile would typically include a Ph.D. in physics or engineering; skills and experience in optical systems, statistical analysis of experimental data, and high-level software programming would be highly beneficial. We would expect you to work well independently as well as in a team environment.
The EPFL offers highly attractive employment conditions. For further details, please contact Dr. MER Stefano Coda.