Divertor 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 a highly motivated plasma physicist to join our team, focusing on the analysis, simulation, and optimization of the divertor region of a stellarator magnetic field. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in plasma physics, with a particular emphasis on plasma fluid models, neutral particle models, and/or atomic processes within plasmas. Experience with the boundary of fusion devices is a plus. You will work on a dynamic team, contributing to cutting-edge research and development in Thea Energy’s stellarator systems.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop and implement algorithms for the simulation of fluid plasmas within complex magnetic edge topologies.
  • Conduct simulations and analyses of collisional edge plasma in stellarators, coupled with neutral-particle and atomic physics models.
  • Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to design stellarator divertor systems.
  • Perform data analysis, model validation, and provide insights into the physical mechanisms governing plasma behavior.
  • Prepare technical reports, presentations, and publications based on design, optimization, and simulation results.
  • Stay up to date with the latest advancements in computational plasma physics, fusion energy, and optimization techniques.

Required Experience & Skillsets:

Qualifications:

  • PhD in Plasma Physics, Computational Physics, Applied Physics, or a related field, or bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with 5+ years of experience or master’s degree in relevant field with 2+ years of experience.
  • Strong knowledge of computational plasma physics and numerical simulations.
  • Experience with the boundary of fusion devices, especially stellarators or tokamaks, is a plus.
  • Proficiency in programming languages commonly used in scientific computing (e.g. Python, Fortran, C++, and MATLAB).
  • Familiarity with simulation tools used in plasma physics research.

Preferred Skills:

  • Experience with edge plasma models such as FLARE, DESC, SOLPS, UEDGE, and EMC3-EIRENE.
  • Experience working on an integrated plasma physics experimental device, ideally a stellarator or tokamak.
  • Understanding of plasma fluid models and neutral particle models.
  • Familiarity with Plasma-Material Interactions.
  • Experience in high-performance computing (HPC) environments..

Personal Attributes:

  • Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and manage projects.
  • 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 - $170,000
  • 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.