Mission Statement
The Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory has two coupled missions.
- PPPL develops the scientific understanding of plasmas from nano- to astrophysical-scale. Plasma physics, the study of hot ionized gas, is crucial to understanding the dynamics of the visible universe and solar system, and high temperature matter in all contexts. This knowledge has a broad range of applications, including fusion energy, forecasting the impact of solar storms, semiconductor chip manufacturing, and technological (e.g., plasma production of carbon nanotubes).
- PPPL develops the scientific knowledge to enable fusion to power the U.S. and the world. Under appropriate conditions and composition, plasma with very high temperature, density, and confinement will release energy from nuclear fusion. PPPL has been a leader in developing the physics of high temperature plasmas needed for fusion. PPPL will continue to solve plasma physics problems crucial to fusion energy, as well as contribute to solutions of key engineering science challenges associated with the material structure that surrounds the hot plasma.
Woven throughout PPPL's approach, as a core part of Princeton University’s culture, PPPL educates and inspires future generations for the national interest. This includes outreach programs for science education from grammar school to college, a world-leading graduate education program in plasmas and astrophysical sciences in conjunction with Princeton University, and hosting hundreds of external students and thousands of visitors each year.
Vision
Enabling a world powered by safe, clean and plentiful fusion energy while leading discoveries in plasma science and technology.
PPPL, on Princeton University's Forrestal Campus in Plainsboro, N.J., is devoted to creating new knowledge about the physics of plasmas — ultra-hot, charged gases — and to developing practical solutions for the creation of fusion energy. The Laboratory is managed by the University for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science, which is the largest single supporter of basic research in the physical sciences in the United States, and is working to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. For more information, please visit energy.gov/science.
Quick Facts
- Lab site established in 1961
- More than 500 top researchers, engineers and support staff
- 34 buildings over 90 acres
- Close oversight and association with two key stakeholders:
- Single discipline lab (magnetic fusion energy) but many varied research areas (nanotechnology, radiological, advanced instrumentation, plasma astrophysics, liquid metals, etc.)
