If you are a prospective student, please apply to ÃÛÌÇÖ±²¥â€™s Graduate Program in Physics. If you are a current student, please reach out directly.
Simulation/theory: lattice QED simulations of plasma dynamics
Quantum electrodynamics (QED) is the most fundamental theory describing charged particles interacting with electromagnetic fields. While plasma kinetic codes, such as Vlasov and particle-in-cell codes are the gold standard for classical plasma phenomena, they cannot self-consistently describe high-energy processes, such as radiation reaction and electron-positron pair production. In this role, you will develop lattice QED into a novel plasma simulation tool. You will develop algorithms, write computer codes, and perform simulations on supercomputers.
Experiment/simulation: magnetized laser-plasma interactions
Applying magnetic fields to laser-driven inertial fusion experiments has shown promise to achieve more robust implosions with higher fusion yields. In this role, you will understand how magnetic fields affect laser-plasma interactions using experiments at the Omega Laser Facility. You will design experiments using simulations and Computer Aided Design software. You will interface with engineers and technicians to conduct experiments. You will post processing and analyze experimental data. After initial training, you will have opportunities to propose and lead experimental campaigns. You will work closely with scientists at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, and impact future magnetized High Energy Density programs.
Theory/simulation: quantum computing for highly excited atoms
In plasma environment, atoms are excited and ionized. Understanding their properties requires modeling processes including bond-bond, bond-free, and free-free electronic transitions. Unlike usual atomic physics where only valence electrons matter, now the core and free electrons also participate. The number of transitions explodes exponentially as the atomic number increases, making quantum computers a prime candidate for carrying out ab initio simulations. In this role, you will develop theories and explore algorithms that may enable efficient quantum simulations.
