Senior/Principal Scientist (Theory)

Zap Energy; Washington; On-site; USD 130,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

Zap Energy in Washington state seeks a Senior/Principal Scientist (Theory) to advance Z-pinch physics through fluid and kinetic modeling. You will lead development of models that capture essential physics for formation and sustainment of sheared-flow-stabilized Z-pinch, and collaborate with experimental teams to guide device design and operation.

This role emphasizes publishing results and presenting at conferences, with responsibilities including validating models against data, deploying

Qualifications

• PhD in plasma physics, fluid dynamics, turbulence, combustion, or a closely related field
• 5-10+ years of relevant experience
• Experience leading computational design optimization and experimental validation
• Strong knowledge of scientific computing and algorithms (CFD, MHD, continuum kinetic modeling, PIC)
• Proven ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of models that capture essential physics in the formation and sustainment of the sheared-flow-stabilized Z-pinch
• Deploy computational tools for simulating compression physics, shock heating, turbulent and kinetic transport, plasma sheaths, atomic and molecular reactions, two-fluid effects, and 3D phenomena
• Validate models against experimental data and refine predictive capabilities
• Collaborate with experimental teams to harness modeling insights to guide device design and operation
• Share findings through publications and presentations at conferences

Skills

Computational design optimization

Experimental validation

Scientific computing

Communication

Kinetic plasma modeling

Two-fluid modeling

AI augmentation

Education

PhD in plasma physics or related field

Tools

High-performance computing workflows

CFD

MHD

PIC

AI augmentation tools

Job description

About Zap Energy

Zap is advancing the next generation of nuclear power technology across fusion, fission and hybrid applications. Built on an integrated platform of high-energy-density physics and pulsed power, liquid metals and advanced materials, and compact, modular systems, Zap is building the foundational technologies needed to deploy the energy sources of the future.

About the opportunity

As a Senior/Principal Scientist (Theory), you’ll play a critical role in advancing our understanding of Z-pinch operation. As part of the Theory & Modeling team, you’ll deploy fluid and kinetic plasma simulation tools to guide experimental design and operation. Your work will address fundamental design challenges and shape strategies for generating and sustaining stable fusion conditions.

Responsibilities:

• Lead the development and implementation of models that capture essential physics in the formation and sustainment of the sheared-flow-stabilized Z-pinch
• Deploy computational tools for simulating compression physics, shock heating, turbulent and kinetic transport, plasma sheaths, atomic and molecular reactions, two-fluid effects, and 3D phenomena
• Validate models against experimental data and refine predictive capabilities
• Collaborate with experimental teams to harness modeling insights to guide device design and operation
• Share findings through publications and presentations at conferences

Qualifications

Required:

• PhD in plasma physics, fluid dynamics, turbulence, combustion, or a closely related field and 5-10+ years of relevant experience
• Experience leading computational design optimization and experimental validation
• Strong knowledge of scientific computing and algorithms (CFD, MHD, continuum kinetic modeling, PIC, etc.
• Proven ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively

Preferred:

• Experience with AI augmentation of design-build-test loops
• Familiarity with kinetic plasma physics and modeling
• Knowledge of atomic and molecular physics of plasmas or combustion reaction chemistry
• Expertise in modeling turbulent transport
• Expertise in high-performance computing workflows

Employment may be conditioned upon the ability to obtain export authorization. Estimated salary range for Senior $130,000-160,000 and Principal: 150,000-200,000 annually. Candidates may be considered for other positions at Zap Energy and actual salary will be based on relevant education, experience, and other qualifications. Range is published in accordance with Washington Equal Pay and Opportunity Act.

Zap Energy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws and regulations.