The Basic Theory and Simulation Division of Institute for Plasma Research, works on the fundamental aspects of several areas of plasma physics and technology. Using advanced analytical techniques, computational modeling, and high performance simulations, the Division supports research activities in basic plasma physics (theory and experiments), plasma technologies and Tokamak physics.

Specifically, research activities span nonlinear plasma dynamics, intense laser–plasma interactions, radio-frequency (RF) discharge physics, magnetic confinement fusion, and strongly coupled complex plasmas. State-of-the-art computational techniques, including Particle-in-Cell (PIC) simulations, Molecular Dynamics (MD), Magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) modeling, kinetic theory, and Monte Carlo transport methods, are employed to investigate plasma behavior across multiple spatial and temporal scales.

In addition to permanent members, the Division is comprised of a large number of graduate students and post-doctoral fellows who along with the faculties work in close collaboration with several leading national and international research institutes and universities.