UW plasma scientists champion federal support for critical research

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Three UW engineering professors have joined national leaders in plasma science to advocate for continued federal investment in a field that underpins everything from fusion energy to semiconductor manufacturing and spacecraft electric propulsion.

Professor Uri Shumlak, along with colleagues Professor Bhuvana Srinivasan and Associate Professor Justin Little, are among the signatories of a new position paper titled "Plasma Science and Engineering: A Foundational Asset For National and Economic Security."

"Plasma science touches virtually every aspect of modern life, from the devices in our pockets to our nation's security infrastructure," says Shumlak, one of the paper's 18 authors. "At a time when federal research budgets face increased scrutiny, it's crucial that we highlight how investments in plasma science deliver transformative returns for our economy and security."

The position paper emphasizes plasma science's role in advancing fusion energy, semiconductor fabrication, space weather prediction, and numerous other technologies critical to U.S. international leadership, competitiveness and defense.

"The research we conduct at the UW doesn't just stay in our laboratories," Shumlak notes. "Our work trains the next generation of scientists and engineers who go on to drive innovation in both the public and private sectors. Reductions in federal support would not only slow scientific progress but would impact our ability to maintain leadership in emerging technologies like fusion energy and advanced manufacturing."

The authors point to plasma science's unique position at the intersection of multiple national priorities, with research supported by the National Science Foundation, Department of Energy, Department of Defense, and NASA.

"What makes plasma science so valuable is its interdisciplinary nature and rapid translation to real-world applications," says Shumlak. "A discovery made while studying the fundamental properties of plasma can quickly lead to innovations in healthcare, energy, or defense. That's why maintaining robust funding across federal agencies is essential for our national interests."