The Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) has an exceptional opportunity for a dynamic and visionary leader to serve as the Associate Laboratory Director (ALD) for computational sciences. This position comes with the opportunity to grow and advance research initiatives and lead the development and implementation of a compelling vision, mission, and strategic plan for PPPL computational science that opens new research directions and funding opportunities, standing up a new research Division at PPPL.

The Associate Laboratory Director (ALD) for Computational Science is responsible for providing leadership, stewardship and strategic vision for the capability and Division. The ALD will be charged with expanding the computational research capability into a significant element of the laboratory’s research portfolio, drive strategic planning, research quality and integrity, and communications regarding plasma computational research. The ideal candidate will be passionate about developing a strong program that will both partner with industry and enhance the laboratory’s interactions with Princeton University.

PPPL is a world leader in fusion and plasma research which advances the scientific understanding of plasma from nano- to astrophysical-scale and develops the scientific knowledge and advanced engineering to enable fusion to power the U.S. and the world. PPPL is operated by Princeton University, is a DOE National Laboratory focused on fusion energy research. To learn more about PPPL please visit pppl.gov.

This position is less than full-time to full-time, depending on funding and business needs.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of a compelling vision, mission, and strategic plan for PPPL computational science that opens new research directions and funding opportunities. Use metrics articulated in the strategic plan to ensure focus of PPPL computational science efforts.
• Organize, empower, and hold accountable computational staff to implement the strategic plan and achieve the vision.
• Identify and implement adoption of modern software engineering practices for PPPL codes.
• Establish a governance structure to update and implement computational priorities.
• Sustain and enhance partnerships with Princeton University intellectually, academically, and in computing operations including programming, system administration, and training.
• Accelerate the transition of PPPL/Princeton codes to utilize hybrid (e.g. GPU-CPU) computational architectures and prepare for increasingly heterogeneous architectures.
• Develop and implement a joint PPPL-Princeton hardware road-map and funding structure including medium-scale clusters and individual workstations as part of the road-map.
• Identify resource needs for software, hardware, and personnel to support computational science and develop an appropriate funding structure to meet these needs. Consult with other DOE labs to identify best practices for resourcing computational science.
• Represent PPPL computational science activities to stakeholders, e.g. Princeton University, Fusion Energy Sciences (FES), Advanced Scientific Computing Research (ASCR).
• Establish PPPL as a leader in whole-device/whole-system modeling (WDM) for burning plasmas and next-step facility design, and support/expand the user base for WDM tools.
• Carry out Computational Science research aligned with the long-term computational strategic goals of PPPL (as time permits)

Qualifications

Education and Experience: 

Professional Experience: 

• At least 10 years’ experience in software development, model validation, modelling, and/or data analysis. Experience in plasma physics and/or fusion science is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated ability to organize and lead a highly capable team of computational scientists.
• Record of impactful publications in recognized scientific journals.

Education: 

• PhD or equivalent in plasma physics, software development, or other relevant discipline.

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. EEO IS THE LAW

Please be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from participation in certain foreign government talent recruitment programs. All PPPL employees are required to disclose any participation in a foreign government talent recruitment program and may be required to withdraw from such programs to remain employed under the DOE Contract.