Postdoctoral Scholar in Experimental Plasma Physics Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology in South Korea

Postdoctoral Scholar in Experimental Plasma Physics at KAIST

The Fusion and Plasma Dynamics Laboratory in the Department of Nuclear and Quantum Engineering at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) is seeking a postdoctoral scholar in experimental plasma physics. The successful candidate will join the fusion plasma research group under the supervision of Prof. Choongki Sung and will contribute to the development, commissioning, and operation of KAIST Mirror (KAIMIR), a linear magnetic mirror device for fusion and plasma physics research.

This position is especially well suited to researchers with a strong background in experimental plasma physics and interest in fusion-relevant plasma systems. Research directions may include RF plasma source development, wave–plasma interactions, plasma instability studies and active control, fast-ion physics, energetic particle confinement, plasma diagnostics and instrumentation, plasma transport, mirror plasma physics, and experimental data analysis with modeling or simulation. Applicants from computational plasma physics or plasma modeling backgrounds are also welcome, particularly if they are keen to collaborate closely with experimental programs.

KAIMIR is described as a rapidly growing platform for fusion-relevant plasma research. Ongoing and planned activities include RF plasma production, neutral beam injection, fast-ion physics, divertor-relevant plasma studies, long-pulse mirror operation, and work on plasma instability control. The postdoctoral scholar will have the chance to take a leading role in the development of a growing experimental fusion device, design and commission advanced plasma diagnostics and experimental systems, develop RF plasma systems, and help shape independent research directions within an expanding research program.

The appointment is initially for two years, with possible renewal depending on funding availability and performance. The salary is competitive, approximately USD 35,000–65,000 per year depending on qualifications, experience, and responsibilities.

Applicants should have a PhD or equivalent in applied physics or a related field, with research experience in at least one relevant area such as experimental plasma physics, plasma diagnostics, RF plasma sources, magnetic confinement devices, fast-ion physics, or plasma modeling and simulation. A strong publication record and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively are required. Experience with plasma experimental systems, RF systems, high-power electronics, vacuum systems, diagnostic instrumentation, hardware development, and troubleshooting is particularly desirable. Good English proficiency is expected.

To apply, email a CV, a cover letter (maximum two pages), copies of three representative publications, and contact details for at least three referees, including your current or most recent supervisor, to [email protected]. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview.

Institution: Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Korea

Deadline: 2026-10-31