Abstract

Compact quasi-axisymmetric stellarator–tokamak hybrids offer a promising pathway to enhanced plasma stability and steady-state operation while retaining favorable tokamak-like transport properties. This talk will introduce stellarator optimization methodologies and transport-optimized stellarator designs, describe the stellarator–tokamak hybrid concept, and clarify the role of quasi-axisymmetry in generating confinement. Particular emphasis will be placed on research opportunities suited for surrogate modeling, machine learning, and multi-fidelity approaches.