PDRA in Fusion Plasmas and Astrophysics

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Plasma Fusion and Astrophysics.

The post is available initially for a fixed-term duration of 6 months, with the possibility of extension pending approval of extension of existing funding.

At plasma conditions such as those found in Inertial Confinement Fusion (ICF) implosions, Magnetic Confinement Fusion (MFE) and in many astrophysical systems, transport of charged particles is a challenging problem that is difficult to simulate as well as diagnose in experiments. For example, particle velocities can reach relativistic values in the tail of the momentum distribution. Understanding how these relativistic electrons are transported through the plasma is a complex multi-scale problem that requires accurate sub-grid models (e.g., Particle-in-Cell or Vlasov codes) coupled to a hydrodynamic simulation. In general, charged-particle transport is a non-trivial task, not only because of the large computational resources that are needed, but also because it is prone to undetermined error propagation and validation and because it is intertwined with multiscale, turbulent dynamics. This projects will address all, or some, of these challenges.

We are looking for two postdocs to drive the development of an in-depth understanding of transport in plasmas, including via methods based upon Molecular Dynamics and Particle-in-Cell techniques. We also envision that the ideal candidates will provide support to experimentalists, helping in the design, data analysis, and/or interpretation of experiments in the areas of laboratory-astrophysics discover science, as well with relevance for ICF and MFE research. One vacancy will have a preference for a computational physicist to focus on code development for ICF and MFE and the other vacancy is more broadly focussed on astrophysical systems. In both cases, we expect the candidates to perform design simulations for ICF or laboratory astrophysics experiments planned at large laser facilities such us the National Ignition Facility at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and the Omega laser facility at the University of Rochester.

The post-holder will have the opportunity to teach. This may include lecturing, small group teaching, and tutoring of undergraduates and graduate students.

Applicants should hold a PhD, or be close to completion of one, in physics or a related field and have a strong background in computational plasma physics.

Previous experience (experimental or theoretical) in plasma physics.

Candidates are expected to be able to work in a multidisciplinary environment. We would like the posts to start as soon as possible.

Please direct enquiries about the role to Prof Gianluca Gregori (Gianluca.gregori@physics.ox.ac.uk)

Only applications received before midday (UK time) 4 October 2024 can be considered. You will be required to upload a statement of research interests, CV and details of two referees as part of your online application.

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