Saskia Mordijck

Dr. Saskia Mordijck is an internationally recognized leader in fusion energy and plasma physics. Her groundbreaking research has earned top honors, including the National Science Foundation’s CAREER Award. With more than 70 peer-reviewed publications and multiple research awards, Saskia has influenced both scientific discovery and energy policy. 

W&M scientists are spanning a wide range of research, including organizing and operating worldwide fusion experiments, developing and running state-of-the-art simulation codes, collaborating with the quantum optics group to develop new diagnostics, and leveraging artificial intelligence to interpret and run fusion devices. "Our research attracts people driven by curiosity and passion to change the world," Saskia says. "Our undergraduate students explore new frontiers and seek out interdisciplinary options, our graduate students develop deep, fundamental new insights, and our post-docs provide expertise to tackle complex problems. Fusion is a team effort."

Beyond the lab, she was the first woman to lead a joint fusion energy research initiative funded by the U.S. Department of Energy and helped shape the plan that now guides federal priorities in the field. Saskia has advised U.S. leaders on international collaborations, contributed to fusion energy policy and represented academia in high-level forums, including meetings at the White House in 2022 and 2024.

Learn more about Dr. Mordijck

• Watch Saskia's Tack Faculty Lecture, Here Comes the Sun: Building a Star on Earth. 
• Read the story on the 2025 Plumeri Award recipients, including Saskia.