Research Scientist

Realta Fusion Inc.; Madison (WI); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity stock options

Health, dental, and vision insurance

401(k)

Flexible PTO

Live in Madison, WI

Job summary

Realta Fusion Inc. in Madison, Wisconsin is seeking a Research Scientist to advance the physics basis for axisymmetric magnetic mirror devices. You will bridge simulation with experimental data from WHAM at UW–Madison and guide experiments and diagnostics for validation.

The role requires a PhD in Plasma Physics with at least 3 years of experience, strong modelling and diagnostics skills, and a track record of collaboration, publications, and proposals for funding in a startup environment.

Qualifications

• PhD in Plasma Physics or related field with minimum 3 years of theoretical and computational plasma physics research.
• Experience with computational model validation and uncertainty quantification.
• Familiarity with experimental plasma diagnostics and analysis techniques.
• Understanding of magnetically confined fusion plasma heating and related technologies.
• Excellent collaboration, written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated innovation through IP or publications.

Responsibilities

• Lead theoretical and computational projects to advance physics for axisymmetric magnetic mirror.
• Bridge experimental data analysis with modelling for validation and uncertainty quantification.
• Use state-of-the-art computational models to explain observations and trends.
• Conduct literature reviews and prepare reports for dissemination.
• Identify and assist with grant opportunities and proposals for funding.
• Publish and present results to advance fusion research credibility.
• Act as a liaison with internal/external stakeholders in a specialized area.
• Support a positive, inclusive culture aligned with company mission and values.

Skills

Plasma physics

Computational modelling

Model validation

Uncertainty quantification

Education

PhD in Plasma Physics

Tools

Bolometers

Interferometers

Electrostatic analyzers

Magnetic measurements

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.

Position Summary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. 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.

8. 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

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

2. Experience with computational model validation and uncertainty quantification.

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

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

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

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

Compensation & Benefits

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.