Scientist - Computational Physics

Scientist – Computational Physics | Inertial Confinement Fusion | High Energy Density Physics

Location:

Rochester, NY | University of Rochester – Laboratory for Laser Energetics (LLE)

Are you passionate about advancing the frontiers of computational physics, plasma physics, and inertial confinement fusion (ICF)? The University of Rochester's Laboratory for Laser Energetics (LLE) is seeking an exceptional Scientist to join the Integrated Modeling Group within our Theory Division.

This is an opportunity to contribute to internationally recognized research supporting the science behind fusion energy while working alongside leading computational scientists and experimental physicists.

• Lead the design and radiation-hydrodynamic modeling of ICF and High Energy Density (HED) experiments on the OMEGA and National Ignition Facility (NIF) laser systems.
• Develop next-generation physics capabilities for LLE's radiation-hydrodynamics simulation codes.
• Apply modern high-performance computing techniques to improve simulation performance and predictive capability.
• Collaborate with experimental teams to validate computational models against cutting-edge experimental data.
• Publish impactful research in leading scientific journals.
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate researchers.

• Ph.D. in Physics, Computational Physics, Plasma Physics, Astrophysics, HED Physics, or a closely related field.
• Five or more years of research experience, including at least two years of postdoctoral research at a university or national laboratory.
• Experience with scientific computing using languages such as C++, Fortran 90, or other modern programming languages.

• Computational Physics
• Radiation Hydrodynamics
• Plasma Physics
• High-Performance Computing

The Laboratory for Laser Energetics is home to the OMEGA Laser Facility, one of the world's premier facilities for laser-driven fusion and high-energy‑density science. Researchers at LLE collaborate with leading universities, national laboratories, and international partners to address some of the most challenging problems in physics while helping advance the future of fusion energy.

Salary: $100,000–$140,000 annually, commensurate with qualifications and experience.

If you're excited by challenging scientific problems, advanced computational modeling, and collaborative research that pushes the boundaries of fusion science, we'd love to hear from you.