Our Expertise
![](https://cdn.statically.io/img/www.pppl.gov/sites/g/files/toruqf286/files/styles/freeform_750w/public/2023-05/core_strength_icons_plasma_science_copy_4.png?itok=RLITbkkt)
Plasma Science
We have an intricate understanding of plasma, and our work has shaped the field of plasma physics for decades.
![](https://cdn.statically.io/img/www.pppl.gov/sites/g/files/toruqf286/files/styles/freeform_750w/public/2023-05/core_strength_icons_engineering_v2.png?itok=rvHSaG3I)
Engineering
Using sophisticated tools, our engineers create state-of-the-art components and design intricate electrical and mechanical systems.
![](https://cdn.statically.io/img/www.pppl.gov/sites/g/files/toruqf286/files/styles/freeform_750w/public/2023-05/core_strength_icons_compuational_sciences_v4.png?itok=TnGXesVH)
Computational Sciences
Our researchers use powerful supercomputers to develop complex models used in applications across science and engineering.
![](https://cdn.statically.io/img/www.pppl.gov/sites/g/files/toruqf286/files/styles/freeform_750w/public/2023-05/core_strength_icons_sensors_analysis.png?itok=4FxDfj-D)
Sensors & Analysis
We provide measurement systems used around the world, which are key in understanding the conditions needed for fusion.
We Are the Lab
Our People
Inspired by the vision.
United by the mission.
Our dedicated employees serve the nation and humanity.
![PPPL staff member working at the lab](https://cdn.statically.io/img/www.pppl.gov/sites/g/files/toruqf286/files/styles/freeform_1440w/public/2023-05/Careers.jpg?itok=jF0miVzE)
Careers
Advancing science requires a diverse,
empowered, and inclusive workforce.
Join us as we work toward building an
innovative and sustainable future.
Our Impact
$150 million
Annual Funding from DOE, Government Agencies
12+
Collaborations with Private Companies
300+
Facility Users
300
Research Papers Published Annually
![Deputy Director for Research Jon Menard gives tour of Lab facilities](https://cdn.statically.io/img/www.pppl.gov/sites/g/files/toruqf286/files/styles/freeform_1440w/public/2023-05/Partnerships_3.png?itok=5IPC7DNr)
Partnerships
From start-ups to Fortune 500s to leading scientific institutions, we team up with companies and organizations worldwide to advance science and develop cutting-edge technologies.
Get Involved
Science Education
Through conferences, workshops, and events, we provide hands-on teaching for students and teachers to engage with science.
![Head of Science Education Arturo Dominguez gives tour to young students](https://cdn.statically.io/img/www.pppl.gov/sites/g/files/toruqf286/files/styles/freeform_750w/public/2023-05/ScienceEd_8x3.png?itok=BMaKwPi5)
Apprenticeships
We offer the first U.S. registered apprenticeship program in fusion energy and engineering designed to train the next generation.
![Welding apprentice working in the Lab's metal shop](https://cdn.statically.io/img/www.pppl.gov/sites/g/files/toruqf286/files/styles/freeform_750w/public/2023-05/apprenticeships_8x3.png?itok=Nxxdg9ko)
Internships
We provide fully immersive internships year-round, both paid and for credit, for students at four-year and two-year institutions.
![Student intern working with a plasma experiment](https://cdn.statically.io/img/www.pppl.gov/sites/g/files/toruqf286/files/styles/freeform_750w/public/2023-05/Internships.png?itok=Eb9QWOQF)
Graduate Study
Our 300+ graduates are leaders in the field of plasma physics, working in academia, national laboratories, industry and beyond.
![PPPL Staff member gives demonstration to group of graduate students](https://cdn.statically.io/img/www.pppl.gov/sites/g/files/toruqf286/files/styles/freeform_750w/public/2023-05/public_engagement_graduate_study.png?itok=B_P934si)
Our Story So Far
Where we've been...
Our roots go back to 1951 when magnetic fusion research at Princeton began under the code name “Project Matterhorn.” Lyman Spitzer, Jr., professor of astronomy at Princeton University, conceived of a plasma being confined in a figure-eight-shaped tube by an externally generated magnetic field. He called this concept the "stellarator," and took this design before the Atomic Energy Commission in Washington. Shortly thereafter, this Laboratory was born.
![Archival photo of Lyman Spitzer standing next to an early stellarator](https://cdn.statically.io/img/www.pppl.gov/sites/g/files/toruqf286/files/styles/freeform_750w/public/2023-05/LymanSpitzer%20Model%20A%20Stellarator%20%281%29.jpg?h=2abca2f9&itok=TqmMfxaU)
...and where we're going.
Princeton Plasma Innovation Center (PPIC): This multimillion-dollar building will serve as an international hub of fusion research and a platform for new programs. Its modern and efficient design will support the Lab’s expanded scientific mission in microelectronics, quantum materials and devices, and sustainability science. With generous funding from the Department of Energy, PPIC will be the first new structure on the Laboratory campus in 50 years.
![Princeton Plasma Innovation Center (PPIC) west view render](https://cdn.statically.io/img/www.pppl.gov/sites/g/files/toruqf286/files/styles/freeform_750w/public/2023-07/2023-0713_ppic_west.jpg?itok=wto8U2Qz)
Princeton Plasma Innovation Center (PPIC) rendering of west view.