Senior Theoretical & Computational Scientist

Realta Fusion Inc; Madison (WI); On-site; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation package including equity stock options

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance

Flexible paid time off (PTO)

Flexible PTO

Madison living

Job summary

A leading fusion technology company in Madison, Wisconsin, is seeking a Senior Theoretical & Computational Scientist to advance magnetic mirror fusion technology. Responsibilities include developing methodologies, leading research projects, and collaborating with stakeholders. The role requires a PhD in Plasma Physics and extensive experience in simulations. The company offers competitive compensation, equity options, and comprehensive benefits in a vibrant city. Candidates who don't meet all criteria are encouraged to apply.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years' experience in theoretical and computational plasma physics research.
• Familiarity with plasma diagnostics like bolometers and interferometers.
• Familiarity with PIC and RF heating tools Warpx/VPIC/Genray/AORSA/CQL3D.
• Basic knowledge of standard plasma diagnostics and analysis techniques.
• Understanding of magnetically confined fusion plasma heating and current drive.
• Exceptional collaboration and communication skills to work with partners.
• Demonstration of innovation through IP and peer-reviewed publications.

Responsibilities

• Develop research methodologies for magnetic mirror fusion research.
• Lead projects to advance the physics basis for axisymmetric mirrors.
• Identify and develop grant opportunities to secure funding.
• Conduct literature reviews, prepare reports, and disseminate findings.
• Identify or assist in grant opportunities and proposals to secure funding.
• Serve as SME and liaison with internal and external stakeholders.
• Contribute to safety standards and their implementation within R&D.
• Foster an inclusive, innovative, collaborative work environment.

Skills

MHD equilibrium and linear stability calculations

Extended-MHD / multi-fluid plasma simulations

Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills

PIC simulations

RF heating tools

Collaboration & communication

Publications / IP generation

Education

PhD in Plasma Physics or related field

5+ years theoretical & computational plasma physics

Tools

NIMROD

JOREK

WarpX

VPIC

AORSA

CQL3D

CQL3D

Job description

Define the physics foundation powering the next generation of high-field magnetic mirror fusion. The Senior Theoretical & Computational Scientist will both lead and 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 devices at Realta Fusion called Anvil and Hammir. This role will include leading and 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. Develop complex research methodologies and procedures to identify solutions in a magnetic mirror fusion research device and optimize the design of Realta’s next fusion devices.
2. Lead and participate in several theoretical and computational projects to advance the physics basis for the axisymmetric mirror, with a focus on validation and then extrapolative design to future devices.
3. Interface with the experimental physics, engineering and business leadership teams to deliver technical milestones.
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. 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.
7. Contribute to the establishment of company safety standards and implement these standards within the R&D team.
8. 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 5 years’ experience in theoretical and computational plasma physics research.
2. Extensive experience with MHD equilibrium and linear stability calculations, and Extended-MHD / multi-fluid plasma simulations with codes such as NIMROD or JOREK.
3. Familiarity with Fokker-Planck, particle-in-cell (PIC) and RF heating simulation tools, such as WarpX, VPIC, Genray, AORSA, CQL3D.
4. Basic knowledge of standard plasma diagnostics (e.g. bolometers, electrostatic ion energy analyzers, interferometers, magnetic measurements) and analysis techniques.
5. Understanding of magnetically confined fusion plasma heating and current drive technologies, such as bias-induced rotation, electron cyclotron heating, neutral beam injection and RF heating.
6. Collaboration: Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal) to collaborate effectively with colleagues, external partners, and stakeholders.
7. Demonstration of innovation capacity through IP generated and/or publications in the field.

Compensation & Benefits

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.

We encourage applicants who don't meet all the criteria but believe they can thrive in this role to apply