Postdoctoral Fellow - Plasma Physics - Department of Physics & Astronomy

The Department of Physics and Astronomy in the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences at West Virginia University Research Corporation is currently accepting applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow, Plasma Physics.

About the Opportunity

This position is to perform research in theoretical and computational plasma physics, with a focus on out of local thermodynamic equilibrium (LTE) energy conversion during collisionless magnetic reconnection through the pressure-strain interaction term, the structure and evolution of kinetic entropy in reconnection and turbulence in weakly collisional plasmas, and/or kinetic simulations of the WVU PHASMA laboratory experiment. The researcher will use particle-in-cell simulations and closely collaborate with observers from NASA's Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) mission and/or experimenters with PHASMA.

At WVU Research Corporation, we strongly believe in work-life balance and keeping time for things we love outside our work. WVU Research Corporation offers a comprehensive benefits package with a variety of options to suit your needs:

• 13 paid holidays (staff holiday calendar)
• PTO
• 403(b) retirement savings with a fully vested 3% employee contribution match, (Employees have the option of contributing an additional 1-3% of their earnings to the plan, which is also matched by the WVURC)
• A range of health insurance and other benefits
• Dependent Education Scholarship
• WVU Perks

What You'll Do

• Use an existing particle-in-cell code to study the pressure-strain interaction term during collisionless magnetic reconnection and compare results to observations made by collaborators with MMS.
• Collaborate with other members of the research group, including contributing to the mentorship of a graduate student working on the project.
• Attend research conferences and read scientific literature to keep abreast of research advances and current research findings.
  Identify and assist with acquisition of funding from public, private, and governmental sources.
• Assist with development of novel research proposals for sponsor submission.
• Write presentations and abstracts to attract research funds.
• Search scientific literature to select and modify methods and procedures most appropriate for research goals.
• Perform research activities according to protocol.
• Maintain detailed logs of work-related activities, including accurate records and data on research methods, procedures, and results.
• Prepare results for presentation to colleagues and the sponsor; at professional/technical conferences; and/or, for publication in scientific journals, as directed.

• PhD in Physics, Plasma Physics, Space Physics, or related discipline.
• A minimum of two (2) years of previous research experience in theoretical and computational plasma physics.
• Expertise in scientific programming, preferably FORTRAN.
• Expertise in kinetic plasmas computing approaches, preferably the particle-in-cell technique.
• Expertise in plasma physics.
• Potential ability to pursue independent research.
• Ability to work as part of a team.
• Skilled at using scientific methods to solve problems.
• Skilled at identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
• The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem.
• Ability to document and present the results of research.
• Ability to write presentations and articles for publication that conform to prescribed style and format as well as use original or innovative techniques or style due to the nature of the scientific content of the material being presented.
• Ability to make effective presentations on complex topics to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Ability to apply principles of logical or scientific thinking to a wide range of intellectual and practical problems.
• Ability to deal with nonverbal symbolism (formulas, scientific equations, graphs, etc.).
• Ability to deal with a variety of abstract and concrete variables.
• Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form.
• Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions.
• Ability to meet deadlines, as well as prepare, present and report results effectively.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with a multidisciplinary team of co-investigators from diverse disciplines, orientations, and organizations.

The online application requires a cover letter, a CV, and names and contact information of three references. Review of applications will begin July 15, 2024, and continue until the position is filled. The preferred start date is immediate.

The WVURC was created as a not-for-profit corporation in 1985 to support research (R1) at West Virginia University. We provide evaluation, development, patenting, management, and marketing services for inventions of the faculty, staff and students of the University.

The WVURC receives and administers funds awarded by external agencies for research and other activities and is responsible for helping protect intellectual property through patents, copyrights and licensing agreements for start-up companies based on University research.

Creating an inclusive, engaged, and dynamic environment is core to WVURC's mission. We welcome candidates who can contribute a range of ideas, approaches and experiences.

West Virginia University Research Corporation is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer. We value diversity among its employees and invites applications from all qualified applicants regardless of race, ethnicity, color, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, nationality, genetics, disability, or Veteran status.