About the Institute
Our group conducts experimental research in magnetically confined plasma to advance understanding of plasma transport and turbulence. A major research interest is in the development of controlled thermonuclear fusion in magnetically confined plasma. We have collaborative experimental programs on the tokamaks DIII-D, EAST, and J-TEXT.
We lead the US effort to develop the electron cyclotron emission diagnostic for measurement of electron temperature in ITER. The group develops and operates plasma diagnostics on all the devices. We are developing a diagnostic system for Compass-U and expect to use it to improve the state of the art for ECE. A low-temperature plasma program is being developed. The first device will be an RF-CCP. Our principal diagnostic expertise extends to electron cyclotron emission for electron temperature and electric probes for electron density and temperature.
The IFS has an extensive academic program, involving student education (course work, seminars, thesis research) and postdoctoral training. Both groups offer numerous dissertation topics and opportunities for research assistantships. They collaborate closely in research, seminars and course offerings, and they share administrative support.
The IFS also serves as a center for fusion science information exchange, nationally and internationally, by arranging visitor programs, courses, conferences, and workshops. As part of this effort, it is the principal site in the United States for the exchange activities of the US-Japan Joint Institute for Fusion Theory.
