We're powering possibilities. The U.S. Department of Energy’s Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is mastering the art of using plasma — the fourth state of matter — to solve some of the world’s toughest science and technology challenges. That’s why public and private researchers worldwide look to PPPL for guidance on plasma science and related engineering challenges. The Lab conducts essential research across a full range of plasma applications, whether it’s developing fusion as a clean, safe and virtually limitless power source or creating the next generation of materials for microelectronics and quantum sensors and devices. With an eye toward sustainability, the Lab is also exploring ways that plasma can be used to help meet net-zero carbon targets. This includes advancing low-carbon technologies and understanding how clouds, light and aerosols interact for potential cooling strategies. Our Vision We envision a world powered by safe, clean and plentiful fusion energy while leading discoveries in plasma science and technology. Learn More About Our Vision As a world-class research laboratory managed by Princeton University, our mission has three main focuses:To develop the scientific knowledge and advanced engineering to enable fusion to power the U.S. and the world. To advance the science of nanoscale fabrication and sustainable manufacturing for technologies of tomorrow. To further the development of the scientific understanding of the plasma universe from laboratory to astrophysical scales. Our Work on Fusion The development of fusion as a sustainable energy source was the founding mission of PPPL in 1951 and remains the guiding star of the Lab. Our research produces breakthroughs into the scientific basis for producing fusion energy and develops rich insights into the nature and uses of plasma. Explore Research Our fusion research starts with advancing the spherical tokamak as a reduced-cost magnetic fusion device. Our on-site experiments include:National Spherical Torus Experiment-Upgrade (NSTX-U)Lithium Tokamak Experiment-𝛽 (LTX-𝛽)Liquid Metal eXperiment Upgrade (LMX-U)MUSE NSTX-U, the primary spherical tokamak fusion experiment at PPPL. Research Diversification Under the umbrella of the Lab’s Applied Materials and Sustainability Sciences (AMSS) Directorate, PPPL uses its expertise in plasma to serve as an economic driver of innovation — using novel plasma technologies to produce computer chips, advance quantum sensors and devices and contribute to a net-zero world. Explore AMSS Our People People are our greatest resource. The Lab is comprised of more than 800 scientists, engineers and operations staff — all of whom strongly contribute to our mission. We’re looking for passionate people to join us in this pursuit.Learn More Explore Careers Partnerships PPPL partners with Princeton University, industry, local, state, and federal government agencies, and research institutions around the world. Our experts pursue basic scientific research that sometimes develops into a patentable or licensable concept.Explore Partnerships Our Experts Education & Workforce Development Underlying all our endeavors is the call to educate and inspire future generations for the national interest. Notably, we offer the first-in-the-nation registered apprenticeship program in fusion energy and engineering.Education Apprenticeships Related links DOE United States Department of Energy website DOE Office of Science website DOE Fusion Energy Sciences (FES) website DOE Princeton Site Office (PSO)
