Powering possibilities. We’re tackling the world’s toughest science and technology challenges using plasma, the fourth state of matter. What is fusion? For more than 70 years, the U.S. Department of Energy’s Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory has been a leader in the science and engineering behind the development of fusion — a clean, safe, and virtually limitless source of energy. This video features Stefan Gerhardt, senior managing research physicist of the National Spherical Tokamak Experiment (NSTX), and Jessica Guttenfelder, heating project engineer, both from PPPL. Developing clean energy for all. We’re leaders in the science and engineering behind the development of fusion — a clean, safe, and virtually limitless source of energy. Top Projects NSTX-UITERLTX-beta Building innovative technologies. We’re improving the production of microchips like those used in laptops and smartphones, as well as aiding in the production of key elements used in quantum computers. MICROELECTRONICS QUANTUM MATERIALS AND DEVICES Contributing to a sustainable future. We’re studying ways to remove fossil fuels from industrial and manufacturing processes to contribute to a Net-Zero America. ELECTROMANUFACTURING SOLAR RADIATION MANAGEMENT Exploring the universe and beyond. We strive to understand plasma from the lab to the cosmos, and for good reason: plasma, the fuel of fusion, makes up 99% of the visible universe. DISCOVERY PLASMA SCIENCE THEORY Our Expertise Plasma Science We have an intricate understanding of plasma, and our work has shaped the field of plasma physics for decades. Engineering Using sophisticated tools, our engineers create state-of-the-art components and design intricate electrical and mechanical systems. Computational Sciences Our researchers use powerful supercomputers to develop complex models used in applications across science and engineering. Sensors & Analysis We provide measurement systems used around the world, which are key in understanding the conditions needed for fusion. We Are the Lab Our People Inspired by the vision. United by the mission. Our dedicated employees serve the nation and humanity. OUR STORIES Neil Gerrish Pamela Tucker Ricardo Marquez Morgan Styer Claudia Bernhardt Careers Advancing science requires a diverse, empowered, and inclusive workforce. Join us as we work toward building an innovative and sustainable future. Join Us Our Impact $150 million Annual Funding from DOE, Government Agencies 12+ Collaborations with Private Companies 300+ Facility Users 300 Research Papers Published Annually "Our national laboratory serves the state, the nation, and the world. For over 70 years, we've focused on the science and engineering behind fusion energy. Now, we're building upon our mission, using our expertise in plasma physics not only to help make fusion energy a reality, but also to help develop innovative, sustainable technologies. It's an exciting time to be here — one filled with great opportunity." Professor Steven Cowley Laboratory Director Partnerships From start-ups to Fortune 500s to leading scientific institutions, we team up with companies and organizations worldwide to advance science and develop cutting-edge technologies. Learn More Get Involved Science Education Through conferences, workshops, and events, we provide hands-on opportunities for students and teachers to engage with science. Learn More Apprenticeships We offer the first U.S. registered apprenticeship program in fusion energy and engineering designed to train the next generation. Learn More Internships We provide fully immersive internships year-round, both paid and for credit, for students at four-year and two-year institutions. Learn More Graduate Study Our 300+ graduates are leaders in the field of plasma physics, working in academia, national laboratories, industry and beyond. Learn More Our Story So Far Where we've been... Our roots go back to 1951 when magnetic fusion research at Princeton began under the code name “Project Matterhorn.” Lyman Spitzer, Jr., professor of astronomy at Princeton University, conceived of a plasma being confined in a figure-eight-shaped tube by an externally generated magnetic field. He called this concept the "stellarator," and took this design before the Atomic Energy Commission in Washington. Shortly thereafter, this Laboratory was born. Our History ...and where we're going. Princeton Plasma Innovation Center (PPIC): This multimillion-dollar building will serve as an international hub of fusion research and a platform for new programs. Its modern and efficient design will support the Lab’s expanded scientific mission in microelectronics, quantum materials and devices, and sustainability science. With generous funding from the Department of Energy, PPIC will be the first new structure on the Laboratory campus in 50 years. Read More about ...and where we're going. Princeton Plasma Innovation Center (PPIC) rendering of west view. Latest News PPPL researchers earn Kaul Foundation Prize for a fusion cooling system December 8, 2023 View all news Yuhu Zhai named PPPL Distinguished Engineering Fellow of 2023 December 8, 2023 View all news Workshop will explore measurement innovations required to understand plasma for fusion energy, microelectronics and more December 4, 2023 View all news PPPL’s first apprentices graduate from the program and begin new jobs as technicians November 29, 2023 View all news Hundreds of PPPL students and scientists present findings at annual APS-DPP conference in Denver November 17, 2023 View all news 1 / 5 Start animation ▶ ︎ ︎ Events Jan 13 Science on Saturday: Natural products as antivirals Jan 17 Colloquium: David Gates, Thea Energy: Reinventing the Stellarator Jan 24 Colloquium: Projecting Flooding Across the United States: Climate Change as a Risk Multiplier Feb 7 Colloquium: Andy Skemer-UCSC View All Events
