Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory

Remembering
Bill Dorland

black and white portrait of Bill Dorland

“He was a giant of computational physics. We have lost a luminous friend and someone who inspired us all every day.”

Steve Cowley, PPPL’s Laboratory director

 

Bill Dorland, the first associate laboratory director for computational sciences and Princeton alumnus, passed away the weekend of Sept. 21.

 

 

 

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-U
ITER
LTX-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.

 

 

 

Contributing to a sustainable future.


We’re studying ways to remove fossil fuels from industrial and manufacturing processes to contribute to a Net-Zero world.

 

 

 

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. 

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

PPPL staff member working at the lab

 

 

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."

 

Deputy Director for Research Jon Menard gives tour of Lab facilities

 

 

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

 

Head of Science Education Arturo Dominguez gives tour to young students


 

Welding apprentice working in the Lab's metal shop


 

Student intern working with a plasma experiment


 

PPPL Staff member gives demonstration to group of graduate students

Our Story So Far

Archival photo of Lyman Spitzer standing next to an early stellarator
Princeton Plasma Innovation Center (PPIC) west view render

Princeton Plasma Innovation Center (PPIC) rendering of west view.