Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in Plasma Physics

How To Apply

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U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

AFIT-

3/27/2026 3:00:00 PM Eastern Time Zone

The Air Force Institute of Technology is offering a postdoctoral fellowship in plasma physics at Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio.

As an Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE) participant, you will join a community of scientists and researchers in an effort to design, develop, and implement new pulsed power target systems. Research fellows will engage in a collaborative environment that fosters the development of analytical, problem‑solving, and communication skills.

Under the guidance of a mentor, you will gain hands‑on experience to complement your education and support your academic and professional goals. Along the way, you will engage in activities and research in several areas. These include, but are not limited to:

• Apply and expand knowledge of experimental physics to contribute to project goals
• Participate in the design, development, testing, and validation of next‑generation pulsed power sources
• Gain research experience on collaborative projects related to the development of new techniques for the generation of radiation

Dayton, Ohio

Exact start dates will be determined at the time of selection and in coordination with the selected candidate. Applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis and fellowships will be filled as qualified candidates are identified.

This appointment is a twelve‑month research appointment, with the possibility to be renewed for additional research periods. Appointments may be extended depending on funding availability, project assignment, program rules, and availability of the participant.

You will receive a stipend to be determined by AFIT. Stipends are typically based on a participant’s academic standing, discipline, research background, and location of the research facility. Other provisions may include the following:

• Health Insurance Supplement (Participants are eligible to purchase health insurance through ORISE)
• Relocation Allowance
• Training and Travel Allowance

The Air Force Institute of Technology, located at Wright‑Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the Air Force’s graduate school of engineering and management as well as its institution for technical professional continuing education. A component of Air University and Air Education and Training Command, AFIT is committed to providing defense‑focused graduate and professional continuing education and research to sustain the technological supremacy of America’s air, space and cyber forces.

This program, administered by Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU) through its contract with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to manage the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), was established through an interagency agreement between DOE and DoD. Participants do not enter an employee/employer relationship with ORISE, ORAU, DoD or any other office or agency. Instead, you will be affiliated with ORISE for the administration of the appointment through the ORISE appointment letter and Terms of Appointment.

Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE. For more information, visit the ORISE Research Participation Program at the U.S. Department of Defense.

The qualified candidate will hold a doctoral degree in Plasma Physics, Nuclear Engineering, Electrical Engineering (with a focus on pulsed power), or a closely related physical science discipline. The degree must have been earned within 6 months of the appointment start date.

Highly competitive applicants will have education and/or experience in one or more of the following:

• An experimental background in pulsed power or plasma physics

A complete application consists of:

• Zintellect Profile
• Educational and Employment History