Robert Paddock
Plasma Physics Scientist
Dr Robert Paddock is working as part of UPLiFT to develop implosion designs and study the underlying physics of Inertial Fusion.
After studying for an undergraduate degree at the University of Bath (including a 6-month research placement at the Institut Laue Langevin), I performed my PHD research at the University Of Oxford, completing my thesis ‘A study of foam targets for direct-drive inertial confinement fusion’ (linked here) in 2023. I then performed post-doctoral research in both the physics and engineering departments in Oxford, before moving to STFC in September 2024.
My primary research interest is the topic of Inertial Fusion Energy. I perform radiation-hydrodynamics simulations of different implosion designs, as well as performing experiments to probe the underling physics of this technique. I have also performed a number of experiments studying the shock-compression behaviour of foams, and have an interest in experimental techniques such as VISAR and x-ray phase contrast imaging.
Research Interests:
Inertial Fusion, Foams, VISAR, X-ray phase contrast imaging
Publications:
ORCID : 0000-0002-0712-9283