Research Scientist

Realta Fusion; Madison (WI); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity stock options

Health, dental, and vision insurance

401(k)

Flexible PTO

Madison, WI residence

Job summary

Realta Fusion in Madison, Wisconsin is seeking a Research Scientist to bridge theory and computation for next-generation magnetic mirror devices. The role focuses on validating computational models with experimental data from WHAM and guiding future Hammir design through simulations.

You will lead theoretical and computational projects, collaborate with external groups, publish results, and contribute to grant proposals in a startup environment.

Qualifications

• PhD in Plasma Physics or related field with 3+ years in theoretical and computational plasma physics research.

Responsibilities

• Lead and participate in theoretical and computational projects to advance the axisymmetric mirror physics basis, focusing on model validation.
• Bridge experimental data analysis and modelling to achieve high-fidelity validation and uncertainty quantification.
• Use state-of-the-art computational models to explain experimental observations and trends.
• Conduct literature reviews, prepare reports and disseminate results to stakeholders.
• Identify and assist in grant opportunities, proposals and other materials to secure funding in a startup environment.
• Publish and present results to advance research and credibility in plasma physics and fusion energy.
• Serve as a subject matter expert and liaise with internal/external stakeholders.
• Foster a positive, inclusive culture aligned with company mission and sustainability goals.

Skills

Model validation

Uncertainty quantification

Plasma diagnostics

Collaboration

Publications

Education

PhD in Plasma Physics

Tools

Bolometers

Ion energy analyzers

Interferometers

Magnetic diagnostics

Job description

Join Realta Fusion and help shape the future of fusion energy through advanced theory and computation. As a Research Scientist, you’ll bridge simulation and experiment to drive groundbreaking progress on our next-generation magnetic mirror devices.

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.

This Scientist will contribute to several theoretical and computational projects to advance the physics basis for the high-field axisymmetric magnetic mirror. This work will include validation of computational models with experimental data from the currently operating Wisconsin HTS Axisymmetric Mirror (WHAM) at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, proposing new experimental campaigns and plasma diagnostics to be fielded on WHAM to aid in validation efforts, and using computational modelling to guide the design of future axisymmetric mirror device at Realta Fusion called Hammir. This role will include participating in collaborations with external research groups at both national laboratories and universities, publishing work in peer-reviewed journals and disseminating results at conferences.

Responsibilities

• Lead and participate in theoretical and computational projects to advance the physics basis for the axisymmetric mirror, with a focus on model validation.


• Bridge experimental data analysis and modelling results for the purposes of high-fidelity model validation and uncertainty quantification.


• Employ state-of-the-art computational models to understand and explain experimental observations & trends.


• Conduct literature reviews, prepare reports and materials and disseminate information to appropriate entities.


• Identify, write, or assist in developing grant opportunities, grant applications, proposals and other materials to secure funding in a startup-environment.


• Publish and present results to advance research and ensure credibility for our work in the field of plasma physics & fusion energy.


• Serve as an institutional subject matter expert and liaison with key internal and external stakeholders providing expert level information and representing the interests of a specialized research area.


• Culture and Values: Foster a positive and inclusive work environment that aligns with the company's mission, values, and sustainability goals, promoting innovation, collaboration, and employee engagement.

Required Qualifications

• Education: PhD in Plasma Physics, or a related field + minimum of 3 years’ experience in theoretical and computational plasma physics research.


• Experience with computational model validation and uncertainty quantification.


• Strong familiarity with experimental plasma diagnostics (e.g. bolometers, electrostatic ion energy analyzers, interferometers, magnetic measurements) and analysis techniques.


• Understanding of magnetically confined fusion plasma heating and technologies, such as bias-induced rotation, electron cyclotron heating, neutral beam injection, and RF heating.


• Collaboration: Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal) to collaborate effectively with colleagues, external partners, and stakeholders.


• Demonstration of innovation capacity through IP generated and/or publications in the field.

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.