Powering Possibilities for 75 years. : What is Plasma? We’re tackling the world’s toughest science and technology challenges using plasma, the fourth state of matter. What is Plasma? Pause video ďż Sep 23 75 Years of Impact: Celebrating Yesterday, Designing Tomorrow Sept. 23, 2026, 11:30 a.m. Celebrate PPPL’s 75th anniversary and discover how the Lab's pioneering research continues to strengthen U.S. energy resilience and leadership, drive economic innovation, educate a next-generation workforce and deliver solutions for the nation’s toughest science and technology challenges.Join The Celebration Advancing a fusion-powered future We’re leaders in the science and engineering behind the development of fusion — a potentially limitless source of energy. Top ProjectsNSTX-UITERGenesis Mission: AI4Fusion Exploring the mysteries of the plasma universe We’re unlocking plasma’s secrets to better protect our planet, understand our solar system and travel through space. DISCOVERY PLASMA SCIENCETHEORY Developing innovative technologies We’re advancing the science of nanoscale fabrication and manufacturing for the technologies of tomorrow. MICROELECTRONICSQUANTUM MATERIALS AND DEVICESAdvanced Manufacturing 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 Emma Collins Kajal Shah Nicholas Kelly Nina Morreale Mark Hughes CareersAdvancing science requires an engaged and innovative workforce.Join Us Our Impact 42+Collaborations with Private Companies 347Facility Users 357Research 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 teaching 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 PACMAN AI framework for controlling fusion systems safely makes key decisions in milliseconds September 2, 2026 View all news Connecting the power of the stars to geometry: PPPL tests an innovative fusion system concept that could change the world August 19, 2026 View all news SangKyeun Kim awarded early career scientist prize for plasma physics August 14, 2026 View all news Summer programs and internships at PPPL: Building new pathways into fusion energy August 6, 2026 View all news A new approach to cleaning the inner walls of a fusion system removes another obstacle to near-endless energy August 4, 2026 View all news 1 / 5 Start animation â–¶ ︎ ︎ Events Sep 23 75 Years of Impact: Celebrating Yesterday, Designing Tomorrow View All Events
