Powering possibilities. : 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 An intricate jigsaw puzzle: Pre‑fitting components of the National Spherical Torus Experiment-Upgrade before reassembly The center stack casing is lifted into the air before being placed into the middle of the National Spherical Torus Experiment-Upgrade. (Photo credit: Michael Livingston / PPPL Communications Department) Strengthening energy resiliency. We’re leaders in the science and engineering behind the development of fusion — a potentially limitless source of energy. Top ProjectsNSTX-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 Advancing solutions for the future. We're contributing to new and efficient technologies to maintain U.S. leadership in key industries. ELECTROMANUFACTURINGAerosol Science 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 Lisa Dixon Haley Wetzel Andres Castaneda Michelle Thomas Stephen Langish CareersAdvancing science requires an engaged and innovative workforce.Join Us Our Impact $178.2 millionAnnual Funding from DOE, Government Agencies 27+Collaborations with Private Companies 350+Facility Users 338Research 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 International conference of plasma experts discuss space and fusion physics April 3, 2025 View all news Simulations showed that six valves provided the ideal setup for rapidly dispersing cooling gas March 25, 2025 View all news PPPL’s Yufan Xu awarded at National Lab Research SLAM March 24, 2025 View all news Lisa Dixon: The head of the team supporting the “nervous system” of NSTX-U is a physicist turned engineer March 21, 2025 View all news An intricate jigsaw puzzle: Pre‑fitting components of the National Spherical Torus Experiment-Upgrade before reassembly March 19, 2025 View all news 1 / 5 Start animation â–¶ ︎ ︎ Events Apr 23 Colloquium: Air Pollution Prevention: Lessons From History and Pragmatic Ways Forward Apr 28 Colloquium: Atomic Scale Simulation in the Service of Nuclear Materials Apr 30 Colloquium: Control of Nonequilibrium Plasma for Electrified Manufacturing View All Events
