Divertor Plasma Physicist

Thea Energy; Kearny (NJ); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in fusion energy is seeking plasma physicists to join their innovative team. Candidates will work on simulation and analysis of plasma behavior in stellarator systems, contributing to groundbreaking research in a collaborative environment. Ideal candidates should have a strong academic background and experience in computational plasma physics, with a passion for advancing fusion energy technology.

Qualifications

• PhD in Plasma Physics or related field, or equivalent experience.
• Strong knowledge of computational plasma physics and numerical simulations.

Responsibilities

• Develop algorithms for simulating fluid plasma within magnetic topologies.
• Conduct simulations and analysis of collisional edge plasma.
• Collaborate on designing a stellarator divertor system.

Skills

Analytical Skills

Problem Solving

Communication

Education

PhD in Plasma Physics

Master's Degree

Bachelor's Degree

Tools

Python

Fortran

C++

MATLAB

Job description

1 week ago Be among the first 25 applicants

About Thea Energy: Thea Energy is leveraging recent breakthroughs in stellarator physics and engineering to create a faster and simpler approach to commercializing fusion energy. The company is reinventing the stellarator using computer-controlled arrays of planar coils, replacing the intricate, complex modular magnets required in other stellarator architectures. Thea Energy aims to create a limitless source of zero-emission energy for a sustainable future.

Position overview: We are seeking highly motivated plasma physicists to join our team, focusing on analysis and simulation of the divertor region of a stellarator magnetic field. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in plasma physics, with emphasis on plasma fluid models, neutral particle models, and atomic processes within a plasma. Experience with the boundary of fusion devices is a plus. You will work with an exciting, dynamic team, contributing to cutting-edge research and development in Thea Energy’s stellarator systems.

Key responsibilities:

1. Develop and implement algorithms for simulating fluid plasma within complex magnetic edge topologies.
2. Conduct simulations and analysis of collisional edge plasma in stellarators, coupled with neutral-particle and atomic physics models.
3. Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to design a stellarator divertor system.
4. Perform data analysis, model validation, and provide insights into plasma behavior mechanisms.
5. Prepare technical reports, presentations, and publications based on simulation results and optimization findings.
6. Stay updated with advancements in computational plasma physics, fusion energy, and optimization techniques.

Required Experience & Skillsets:

• PhD in Plasma Physics, Computational Physics, Applied Physics, or a related field, or a bachelor’s degree with 5+ years of experience, or a master’s degree with 2+ years of experience.
• Strong knowledge of computational plasma physics and numerical simulations.
• Experience with the boundary of fusion devices, especially stellarators, is a plus.
• Proficiency in programming languages like Python, Fortran, C++, or MATLAB.
• Familiarity with plasma physics simulation tools.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage projects.
• Strong attention to detail and a passion for fusion energy research.
• Willingness to collaborate with diverse scientists and engineers.

Ideal Experience & Skillsets:

• Experience with edge plasma models such as SOLPS, UEDGE, EMC3-EIRENE.
• Experience with plasma physics experimental devices, especially large stellarators or tokamaks.
• Understanding of plasma fluid and neutral particle models.
• Knowledge of Plasma-Material Interactions.
• Experience in high-performance computing environments.

It’s not necessary to meet all skillsets. Please feel free to reach out and tell us why you would be a great fit for this role or Thea Energy.

Diversity and Inclusion: Thea Energy is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity. We welcome applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, family or marital status, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristics.