Computational Plasma Physicist — Fusion HPC

Fuse; San Leandro (CA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

Fuse is seeking a Computational Physicist to turn physics, mathematics, and HPC into predictive models for our pulsed-power fusion systems. You will develop and run MHD, PIC, and circuit simulations and collaborate with experimentalists to optimize performance.

The role requires a Ph.D. or M.S. in a related field, strong programming skills (Python, Fortran, C++, MATLAB), and experience with HPC. Relocation assistance is available for eligible candidates.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or M.S. in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, or a related field.
• Strong background in computational plasma physics and high-energy-density physics.
• Experience with Screamer, MAGIC, HYDRA, or similar circuit and plasma codes.
• Proficiency in MHD and PIC simulation techniques.
• Strong programming skills in Python, Fortran, C++, or MATLAB for numerical modeling.
• Experience with HPC environments and parallel computing.

Responsibilities

• Develop and run simulations for pulsed-power systems using MHD, PIC, and circuit models.
• Utilize and modify Screamer circuit code for modeling high-voltage pulse generation and delivery.
• Conduct magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) simulations to study plasma dynamics in fusion and Z-pinch configurations.
• Implement and analyze particle-in-cell (PIC) simulations for plasma interactions and beam dynamics.
• Model impedance matching in Marx generators and analyze energy coupling in plasma loads.
• Collaborate with experimentalists to validate models and optimize system performance.
• Develop custom computational tools and optimize existing codes for high-performance computing (HPC).
• Analyze and interpret large data sets, extracting meaningful insights and presenting findings in clear, concise reports.
• Develop software tools and algorithms to optimize simulation processes and improve computational efficiency.
• Stay up to date with advancements in computational techniques, programming languages, and physical theories to apply state-of-the-art methodologies to projects.
• Contribute to academic papers, technical reports, and presentations, sharing results with both internal teams and external collaborators.
• Provide technical mentorship and guidance to junior team members.

Skills

Computational plasma physics

High-energy-density physics

MHD

PIC simulations

Screamer/MAGIC/HYDRA

Python

Fortran

C++

MATLAB

HPC / parallel computing

Data analysis

Education

Ph.D. or M.S. in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Applied Mathematics

Tools

Screamer

MAGIC

HYDRA

Job description

Fuse is seeking a Computational Physicist to turn physics, mathematics, and HPC into predictive models for our pulsed-power fusion systems. You will develop and run MHD, PIC, and circuit simulations and collaborate with experimentalists to optimize performance.

The role requires a Ph.D. or M.S. in a related field, strong programming skills (Python, Fortran, C++, MATLAB), and experience with HPC. Relocation assistance is available for eligible candidates.