Samuel A. Cohen

Samuel A. Cohen is a Lecturer with the rank of Professor in the Department of Astrophysical Sciences at Princeton University. He serves as Director of the Program in Plasma Science and Technology and leads the Magnetic Nozzle & FRC Experiments. His research focuses on magnetic fusion, field-reversed configurations (FRCs), aneutronic fuels, plasma thrusters for space propulsion, and nonlinear dynamics of charged particles.

• Ph.D., Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 1973
• B.S., Physics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 1968

Cohen's work spans fusion energy, plasma physics, and space exploration. He pioneered research on advanced plasma thrusters for deep-space missions, including Direct Fusion Drive technologies. His studies on FRC stabilization, ion heating via rotating magnetic fields, and electron acceleration mechanisms have informed spacecraft propulsion systems and fusion reactor design.

• Sigma Xi RLE Fellow
• Goodwin Medal for Distinguished Teaching, MIT
• Fellow, American Physical Society
• Best Mentor Award, Princeton University (2008)
• Excellence in Physics Education Award, American Physical Society (2017)
• Significant Impact Faculty Award, Princeton University (2018, 2019)
• Excellence in Technology Transfer Award, Federal Laboratory Consortium (2018)
• Thomas Edison Patent Award, New Jersey (2020)