Senior Research Scientist

Help us power the planet. 

The planet urgently needs safe, reliable, zero-carbon energy without waste. Nuclear fusion can address the scale of this problem, but for decades, existing fusion approaches have not proven a net positive energy gain. Zap Energy has rethought the fundamental technology of fusion. As the only company using sheared-flow-stabilized Z-pinch, we present potentially the fastest path to commercially available fusion energy.

About the opportunity

As a Senior Research Scientist, you’ll be at the heart of our mission—  defining global science strategies with other leaders,  developing fusion concept and scenarios, designing next generation fusion prototypes, developing, running, and analyzing experiments that push the boundaries of plasma physics and fusion technology, coordinating with a strong theory team to validate, benchmark and scale plasma performance, and communicating progress with internal and external stakeholders. Your work will help us understand complex systems, validate models, and uncover insights that move us closer to sustainable energy. 

Responsibilities 

• Define scientific strategy and development plans, pushing forward Zap’s fusion concept using both experimental and modeling workflows 

• Effectively progress from concept to design and lead experimental campaigns on advanced fusion devices, leveraging insight from theory and modeling 

• Manage or lead the design, fielding, and operations of multiple plasma diagnostic systems (interferometry, spectroscopy, neutronics, Thomson scattering, magnetics, etc.)  

• Collaborate cross-functionally across the R&D organization and other technical and non-technical teams 

• Work closely with research engineers and diagnosticians to integrate systems and optimize experimental setups 

• Manage and/or perform data analysis, reduction, error propagation, publication, and presentation of experimental results, including computational results  

Qualifications 

Required 

• PhD in plasma physics or closely related field and 7-10+ years of relevant experience 

• Demonstrated ability to plan and lead complex, cross-functional projects   

• Experience correlating scientific experimental results with theoretical simulations and models 

• Familiarity with plasma theory and computational models either as user or as collaborator 

• Strong foundation in plasma physics and fusion science 

• Hands-on experience with experimental design and data analysis 

• Creative problem solving and proven ability to thrive in fast-paced, collaborative environments 

• Clear communicator who enjoys turning complex ideas into actionable insights 

Preferred 

• Experience with Z-Pinch fusion research, analysis, experimentation, and modeling 

• Bonus points for expertise in: 

• • Fusion plasma diagnostics 

• • Pulsed power systems 

• • High-voltage instrumentation 

• • Computational plasma modeling 

Employment may be conditioned upon the ability to obtain export authorization. Estimated salary range: $140,000-200,000 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.  

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