Experimental Plasma Physics - Postdoctoral Researcher

Fusion Energy Base; Livermore (CA); On-site; USD 104,591 - 141,505; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) plan

Relocation assistance

Education reimbursement program

Flexible schedules

Job summary

Commonwealth Fusion Systems in Devens, MA, is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher to advance edge plasma physics for magnetic fusion devices. You will design and apply infrared diagnostics to measure temperature and heat flux in the SPARC tokamak and characterize in‑vessel materials.

The role requires a PhD in a related field, strong publication record, and the ability to collaborate across disciplines. This is a full-time, on-site position with opportunities for relocation support and education

Qualifications

• PhD in plasma physics, engineering, or related field.
• Experience with experimental measurements in plasma devices.
• Publication record in peer‑reviewed literature.
• Ability to work independently and in multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Research in edge plasma and plasma-surface interaction physics.
• Design, construct, calibrate, operate, and interpret edge-plasma diagnostics.
• Analyze data to validate theoretical models and simulations for fusion devices.
• Publish results in peer-reviewed journals and present at conferences.
• Pursue independent but related research and collaborate with scientists and engineers.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Plasma physics knowledge

Experimental measurements

Independent research

Scientific communication

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in plasma physics, engineering, or related field

Tools

Python

IDL

Infrared cameras

Job description

Postdoctoral Researcher – Edge Plasma Physics (Magnetic Fusion Devices)

Location: Commonwealth Fusion Systems, Devens, Massachusetts.

Overview

You will apply expertise in diagnostic design, construction, calibration, operation, and interpretation in collaboration with engineering and experimental teams to understand power‑handling challenges in magnetic fusion devices. The role focuses on implementing advanced infrared diagnostics for measurements of temperature and heat flux inside the SPARC tokamak and infrared characterization of in‑vessel materials to aid interpretation.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research in edge plasma and plasma‑surface interaction physics.
• Design, construct, calibrate, operate, and interpret edge‑plasma diagnostics.
• Analyze data to validate theoretical models and simulations for fusion devices.
• Document and publish research results in peer‑reviewed journals and present at conferences, seminars, and technical meetings.
• Pursue independent but complementary research interests and collaborate with a broad spectrum of scientists and engineers.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Work performed by a U.S. person (U.S. citizen, permanent resident, national, or protected individual).
• Assignments longer than 179 days require a federal background investigation.
• PhD in plasma physics, engineering, or related field.
• Knowledge of basic plasma physics.
• Experience in experimental measurements in plasma devices.
• Documented publication record in peer‑reviewed literature and experience presenting research results to a large audience.
• Experience carrying out independent research and working effectively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Proficient verbal and written communication skills for authoring technical reports, publications, and delivering presentations.
• Ability to work independently and in a team to achieve program goals in a timely fashion.

Desirable Skills

• Knowledge of edge plasmas in fusion devices.
• Experience with diagnostic hardware design and implementation in a scientific setting.
• Experience with data‑analysis programming languages such as Python and IDL.
• Familiarity with imaging and spectroscopic edge‑plasma diagnostic techniques.
• Experience with infrared cameras and optics.

Position Details

• Postdoctoral appointment with a maximum extension to three years.
• Full‑time on‑site presence required.

Compensation & Benefits

• Pay range: $123,048 annually.
• 401(k) plan.
• Relocation assistance.
• Education reimbursement program.
• Flexible schedules (depending on project needs).

Security Clearance

None required.

Equal Employment Opportunity

We are an equal opportunity employer that is committed to providing all with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, protected veteran status, age, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws.