Research divisions at the psfc

MIT's Plasma Science and Fusion Center (PSFC) is known internationally as a leading university research center for the study of plasma and fusion science and technology with research activities in five separate but interrelated areas.

Physics Research
The Physics Research Division develops fundamental experimental and theoretical understanding of magnetically confined and high energy density plasmas, including theoretical and computational support for the Alcator C-Mod tokamak and the Levitated Dipole Experiment, basic plasma research in magnetic reconnection on the Versatile Toroidal Facility, advanced plasma diagnostic development for magnetic and inertial fusion plasmas, high energy density physics and field and laboratory investigations of space plasmas.

Alcator Project
MIT's fusion device, the Alcator C-Mod tokamak, is unique in its dedication to compact size and high performance. As a result, Alcator experiments have performed at levels rivaling the largest fusion experiments in the world.

Fusion Technology & Engineering
The Technology and Engineering Division has broad experience in engineering research and development of magnet systems for use in PSFC projects, in national and international fusion projects, and in a wide variety of applications for government laboratories, industry, medical institutions, and others.

Plasma Technology
In the Plasma Technology Division, promising plasma technologies and related monitoring devices have been developed for a variety of waste processing and pollution reduction applications. The Division has received five R&D 100 awards for environmental and process monitoring devices, and a Discover Award for significant contributions to transportation technology.

Waves & Beams
The Waves and Beams Division conducts research on novel sources of electromagnetic radiation, including gyrotrons, and on the generation and acceleration of particle beams.