Dr. Knyazev specializes in theoretical plasma physics in the areas of energetic particle dynamics, plasma kinetics, fusion plasmas, and laser plasma interactions. He also maintains an active interest in theoretical problems related to nonlinear dynamics, turbulent transport, and kinetic theory.
Alexey's current project focuses on understanding the physics related to the dynamics of the energetic ions in stellarators, and on utilizing this understanding to control and predict the transport of fusion-born alpha particles in a stellarator power plant.
Prior to joining Prof. Paul's group, Alexey earned his Ph.D. under the mentorship of Professor Sergei Krasheninnikov at the University of California, San Diego. During his time at UCSD, Dr. Knyazev worked on various topics related to energetic particle dynamics, relativistic laser plasma interactions, and reduced models for turbulent impurity transport. He also contributed to development and did theoretical analysis for the gyro-kinetic code COGENT in collaboration with Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.