Post Doctoral Fellow - Department of Physics and Astronomy

Clemson University – College of Science:
Physics & Astronomy Location

310C Kinard Lab

Feb 27, 2025

Dr. Paul Cassak invites applications for a postdoctoral fellow at the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Clemson University. This position includes a competitive salary, university benefits, and travel funds for conferences. The postdoctoral researcher will conduct research in theoretical and computational plasma physics, focusing on non‑local thermodynamic equilibrium energy conversion during collisionless magnetic reconnection, the pressure‑strain interaction term, and the structure and evolution of kinetic entropy in reconnection and turbulence in weakly collisional plasmas.

The role includes using kinetic simulations and analytical theory, closely collaborating with observers from NASA’s Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) mission, and interacting with graduate students in a collaborative environment.

The Cassak group specializes in theoretical and computational plasma physics with an emphasis on space and solar physics. Numerical techniques employed include primarily kinetic approaches, with fluid methods used as needed. The group has close connections with colleagues who employ satellite observations and laboratory experiments. Other research areas in the department include Astronomy and Astrophysics, Atomic, Molecular, and Optical physics, Biophysics, and Condensed Matter Physics.

A successful candidate must have completed the requirements for a Ph.D. in Physics, Plasma Physics, Space Physics, or a related discipline by the beginning of the appointment. Expertise in computational approaches to simulate kinetic plasmas, preferably the particle‑in‑cell technique, is strongly preferred. A solid background in plasma physics theory is also strongly preferred.

• Potential to pursue independent research
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Skilled at identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions
• Ability to detect when something is wrong or likely to go wrong
• Ability to document and present research results, write presentations and articles for publication, and make effective presentations on complex topics to technical and non‑technical audiences
• Ability to interpret a wide variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form
• Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions
• Ability to meet deadlines and collaborate effectively with a multidisciplinary team of co‑investigators from diverse backgrounds

Review of applications will begin immediately, and the position will remain open until filled. The preferred start date is August 15, 2025.

Applicants should submit the following items via Interfolio:

Please contact Paul Cassak (pcassak) with questions.

Clemson University is an EEO/AA employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to characteristics protected by applicable law including disability and protected veteran status.