Associate Computational Scientist

Realta Fusion; Madison (WI); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity stock options

Health/dental/vision insurance

401(k)

Flexible PTO

Live and work in Madison, WI

Job summary

Realta Fusion seeks an Associate Scientist in Madison, WI, to contribute across both theoretical and experimental plasma physics in a fast-paced fusion startup environment. The role targets early-career scientists with a strong physics foundation and computational experience.

You will perform simulations, help build modelling infrastructure, and support analysis of simulation and experimental data while collaborating across theory, experiments, controls, and systems teams.

Qualifications

• BS in Physics or closely related field, required.
• Exposure to both theoretical and experimental physics through coursework or research.
• Experience with scientific programming and data analysis tools (Python, Julia, or similar).

Responsibilities

• Perform simulations to study plasma dynamics in magnetic mirror traps.
• Help develop modelling infrastructure to reproduce experimental observations.
• Analyze and interpret simulation and experimental data using scientific programming tools.
• Collaborate with theory, experiments, controls and systems teams.
• Maintain documentation of research activities and results.
• Participate in technical discussions and project planning.

Skills

Problem-solving

Communication

Team collaboration

Strong physics foundation

Education

BS in Physics

Tools

Python

Julia

High-performance computing

Job description

We are looking for motivated early-career scientists who are excited to contribute across both theoretical and experimental efforts in a fast-paced fusion startup environment.

Realta Fusion is a rapidly growing start-up developing compact magnetic mirror fusion energy systems to address the biggest challenge of our time –tackling global climate change while ensuring a sufficient energy supply for at least ten billion people on (and off) earth. We are building a team with diverse talents dedicated to making fusion energy a real solution to humanity’s most pressing problem.

The Associate Scientist will support ongoing research and development activities related to plasma physics, fusion systems, diagnostics, and modeling. This role is designed for recent graduates with a strong foundation in physics and computational experience.

The ideal candidate is curious, collaborative, adaptable, and eager to work across multiple technical areas.

Responsibilities

• Perform simulations to answer key questions about plasma dynamics in magnetic mirror traps.
• Assist in the development of modelling infrastructure to accurately reproduce experimental observations.
• Support analysis and interpretation of simulation & experimental data using scientific programming tools.
• Collaborate with scientists and engineers across theory, experiments, controls, and systems teams.
• Maintain clear documentation of research activities and results.
• Participate in technical discussions and project planning activities.

Required Qualifications

• BS in Physics or closely related field
• Strong foundation in classical physics, electromagnetism, and modern physics
• Exposure to both theoretical and experimental physics through coursework, research, or internships
• Experience with scientific programming and data analysis tools (Python, Julia, or similar)
• Strong problem-solving and communication skills
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment

Preferred

• Undergraduate research experience in plasma physics, fusion, electromagnetics, or related fields
• Strong familiarity with numerical methods or simulation tools
• Experience using high-performance computing clusters
• Experience working in team-based research environments

What we are working on is hard… and hugely important. Realta Fusion is assembling a talented team bound together by a passion to solve humanity’s biggest challenge with first-of-a-kind technology. Additionally, Realta offers:

• Competitive compensation package, including equity stock options
• Comprehensive benefits including health, dental, and vision insurance, plus a 401(k)
• Flexible paid time off (PTO) to support work-life balance
• Work and live in Madison, Wisconsin — one of America’s most livable and vibrant cities

We value diversity as a critical factor in innovation and believe a diverse team is necessary to solve the toughest problems. We aim to create an inclusive environment that unleashes the full creativity of our team members from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences. We provide equal employment opportunities to all individuals based on merit and without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable laws.