Advancing Plasma Science for Sustainable Technological Solutions

Uniting world-class researchers to harness the power of plasma for a better future.

We explore the extraordinary potential of plasmas — the most abundant form of visible matter in the universe. Our multi-disciplinary teams bridge physics, engineering, chemistry, biology, and mathematics to deliver sustainable technologies with real-world impact.

About NCPST

Interdisciplinary science. Societal impact.

The National Centre for Plasma Science and Technology (NCPST) is a leading hub for interdisciplinary plasma research. We bring together scientists and engineers to investigate the science, engineering, and applications of plasmas — ionised gases with unique properties.

  • Advance the understanding of plasma science
  • Develop innovative, sustainable technologies
  • Support researchers at all career stages
  • Build strong partnerships with industry and the community

What are Plasmas?

The fourth state of matter

Nature’s luminous canvas

Plasmas occur in the Sun and stars, the aurora, and lightning. They comprise freely moving electrons and ions, producing unique physical and chemical behaviour.

Technology enabler

In laboratories, plasmas are generated for semiconductor fabrication, sterilisation, new materials, emissions abatement, and even targeted biomedical effects.

Solving global challenges

Plasma science drives solutions in clean energy, environmental protection, advanced manufacturing, and healthcare — from nanoelectronics to wound care.

Research

From fundamentals to applications

Advanced Material Synthesis & Functionalisation

Nanostructured surfaces, thin films and coatings for electronics, aerospace and energy systems.

Green & Environmental Technologies

Emissions cleaning, water treatment and sustainable manufacturing via plasma processes.

Plasma Medicine

Non-invasive therapeutics for oncology, infection control and accelerated healing.

Information Technologies

Plasma-enabled microelectronics, photonics and data storage technologies.

Fusion Energy

Contributing to international efforts to realise safe, clean and abundant fusion power.

Space Applications

Electric propulsion, surface conditioning and space weather interactions.

Facilities

From concept to prototype

  • Versatile Plasma Reactors

    RF, microwave and atmospheric systems for deposition, etching and surface treatment.

  • Cleanroom & Micro-/Nanofabrication

    Process lines for thin films, patterning and device integration.

  • Diagnostics & Imaging

    High-speed imaging, spectroscopy and advanced characterisation.

  • Modelling & Simulation

    Predictive plasma dynamics and design optimisation.

Opportunities

Build your career in plasma science

Studentships & Placements

Undergraduate internships and MSc/PhD projects with expert supervision and hands-on access to facilities.

Postdoctoral & Industry Collaborations

Fellowships and co-creation with partners to translate research into impact.

Publications

Peer-reviewed outputs, conferences and reports

Our researchers publish across leading international journals and present at major conferences, covering fundamental plasma physics through to technology deployment.

News

Research highlights, grants and events

People

Our community of scientists and engineers

We are a collaborative team spanning physics, engineering, chemistry, biology and mathematics — united by curiosity and purpose.

Training

Hands-on skills for high-impact careers

Programmes blend laboratory practice with theory: plasma diagnostics, modelling, cleanroom protocols, safety and project management.

Engaged Research

Connecting science with society

  • Collaborative innovation with UK industry and public bodies
  • STEM outreach, teacher CPD and public engagement
  • Demonstrators in healthcare, sustainability and manufacturing