Computational Plasma Physicist

Kearny, NJ
Technology – Physics /
Full-time /
On-site
About Thea Energy:
Thea Energy is leveraging recent breakthroughs in stellarator physics and engineering to create a faster and simpler approach to commercializing fusion energy. The company is reinventing the stellarator using computer-controlled arrays of planar coils thereby replacing the intricate, complex modular magnets required in all other stellarator architectures. Thea Energy is on a mission to create a limitless source of zero emission energy for a sustainable future.
Position Overview:

We are seeking highly motivated Computational Plasma Physicists to join our team, focusing on stellarator and fusion plasma physics simulations. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in computational physics, with a particular emphasis on MHD stability in stellarators and stellarator optimization. You will work with minimal supervision, contributing to cutting-edge research and development in Thea Energy’s stellarator systems.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop and implement algorithms for analyzing and improving stellarator configurations.
  • Conduct simulations and analysis of fusion plasma behavior in stellarators, using advanced computational models.
  • Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to refine designs and improve the performance of stellarator systems.
  • Perform data analysis, model validation, and provide insights into the physical mechanisms governing plasma behavior.
  • Prepare technical reports, presentations, and publications based on simulation results and optimization findings.

Required Experience & Skillsets:

Qualifications:

  • PhD in Plasma Physics, Computational Physics, Applied Physics, or a related field, or master’s degree in relevant field with 2+ years of experience.
  • Strong knowledge of computational plasma physics and numerical simulations.
  • Experience with stellarators is a plus.
  • Proficiency in programming languages commonly used in scientific computing (e.g., Python, Fortran, C++, or MATLAB).
  • Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Preferred Skills:

  • Experience with any of the stellarator design, stability or transport codes such as DESC, STELLOPT, VMEC, TERPSICHORE, M3DC-1, GX, GENE-3D.
  • Understanding of optimized stellarator magnetic field generation and coil optimization techniques.
  • Experience in high-performance computing (HPC) environments.

Personal Attributes:

  • Ability to work independently and manage projects with minimal supervision.
  • Strong attention to detail and a passion for advancing the field of fusion energy research.
  • Willingness to collaborate with a diverse team of scientists and engineers within the company and externally.

Company Benefits:

  • Salary range $120,000 - $140,000
  • Comprehensive health benefits (e.g. medical/dental/vision)
  • Employee equity stock options
  • 20 days PTO
It’s not necessary to meet all of the skillsets outlined above. Please feel free to send us a note and tell us why you would still be a great fit for this role or Thea Energy.
Diversity and Inclusion:
Thea Energy is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a company of diverse backgrounds. By creating a diverse environment, we will bring new ideas and approaches to solving some of the world’s hardest (and most important) problems. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, family or marital status, age, disability, veteran’s status, or other characteristic protected by applicable laws and regulations.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.