Dr. Snyder has been at GA since 1999 and in this short time has made important contributions to understanding the behavior of the tokamak edge plasma. Both experimental results and computational modeling show that the overall fusion plasma performance depends critically on the pressure at the plasma edge. Hence developing a predictive understanding of the edge plasma is critical for enhancing the confidence of the performance of next step burning plasmas, including ITER. Dr. Snyder's research is therefore building an excellent scientific foundation for a highly relevant and important topic.

The award, which includes a plaque and a stipend of $25,000, recognizes outstanding young theorists in the field of plasma physics. It was created in 2003 to honor one of fusion's greatest scientists, Professor Marshall Rosenbluth, who had contributed so much to GA's fusion and plasma physics research throughout his career. The recipient of the award is chosen based on recommendations from a highly regarded external selection committee.

Details of the award can be found at http://fusion.gat.com/awards/rosenbluth.html