Associate Research Scientist - X-ray Imaging Crystal Spectrometer (XICS)

Job Type Full-Time Overview The successful candidate will play a leading role in the development and maintenance of a core X‑ray Imaging Crystal Spectrometer (XICS) on the JT‑60SA tokamak, including its calibration, operation, tomographic integration, and data analysis. This advanced diagnostic capability will be applied to study particle, thermal, and momentum transport across Ohmic, NBI, and RF‑heated plasma scenarios. The proposed work also aims to exploit new real‑time diagnostic data capabilities in combination with theory, state‑of‑the‑art computational modeling, and a rigorous verification and validation (V&V) framework developed by PPPL in collaboration with national and international partners. JT‑60SA, located in Naka, Japan, is the largest and most powerful tokamak currently in operation worldwide. As a superconducting device capable of long‑pulse operation with advanced plasma shaping and control, it provides a unique platform for developing the physics and technologies essential for future fusion reactors. JT‑60SA is a major international collaboration between Japan and Europe under the Broader Approach framework, supporting and complementing ITER by exploring high‑performance, steady‑state plasma scenarios. Responsibilities Lead the implementation of the XICS on JT‑60SA, including day‑to‑day calibration, operation, and maintenance. Develop and maintain data analysis codes required to interpret diagnostic results using core Doppler “3D” x‑ray tomography. Actively participate in the JT‑60SA research program, propose, execute, and contribute to experiments led by European and Japanese team members. Collaborate with Ph.D. students or other postdoctoral researchers to achieve research goals. Publish results in refereed journals and present them at major international conferences. Qualifications Applicants should hold a Ph.D. in plasma physics, fusion science, atomic physics, or a closely related field. Preference will be given to candidates with experimental experience on fusion devices and demonstrated expertise in tokamak diagnostics, x‑ray measurements, and plasma and core fusion physics. Experience in data analysis and proficiency in modern x‑ray tomographic programming techniques are highly desirable. Areas of interest for development using the XICS diagnostic suite include thermal, impurity, and momentum transport, MHD equilibrium, as well as beam and RF heating and current drive. Proficiency in Japanese is desirable but not required. Equal Opportunity Statement Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity Employer 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. Salary and Benefits Salary range: $91,500 to $146,100 per year. The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. General Employment Information Standard weekly hours: 40 Eligible for overtime: No Probationary period: 180 days Drivers license required: No #J-18808-Ljbffr