Full Job Description
We are seeking a Scientist (Experimental Plasma Physicist) who will develop in-situ boundary plasma diagnostics for the C-2W fusion device. In this role, you will design, deploy, and troubleshoot direct-contact material diagnostics - such as Langmuir probes, retarding field analyzers, fast ion loss detectors, pyrobolometers, and thermo-optical arrays - to measure local edge density, temperature, heat flux, and more. You will also run experiments, perform data analysis, and translate raw diagnostic signals into physics-based insights.
This is a full-lifecycle scientific role. We are not just looking for a hardware builder, but a scientist who will own the entire experimental loop. You will lead the physical development of edge diagnostics, deploy them on the C-2W device, run the experimental campaigns, and critically analyze the resulting data to gain insight into the underlying physics and help guide design choices for our next-generation devices.
About The Role
- The successful candidate will join the Boundary Plasma Physics Team in the Applied Plasma Physics Division under the guidance of the Lead Scientist.
- Develop, deploy, refine, and troubleshoot in situ boundary plasma diagnostic systems to characterize key plasma parameters such as local edge density, temperature, heat flux, plasma potential, fast ion distribution, and more.
- Collaborate with engineering teams to design, maintain, and refine direct-contact material diagnostics - such as Langmuir probes, retarding field analyzers, fast ion loss detectors, pyrobolometers, and thermo-optical arrays.
- Plan and execute experiments on the C-2W fusion device.
- Analyze complex experimental data with advanced modeling and simulation tools, interpreting results within the broader fusion research program.
- Prepare technical reports, documentation, and presentations for internal meetings, project reviews, and scientific conferences.
- Maintain laboratory infrastructure while strictly following all safety protocols.
- Promote the TAE Core Values, Rules of the Road, and our Culture of Safety.
About You
- PhD-level research experience in experimental plasma physics, with a strong focus on in situ plasma diagnostics.
- Hands-on experience building, deploying, troubleshooting, and maintaining diagnostics on plasma research devices
- Direct experience with one or more of the following diagnostics highly preferred: Langmuir probes, retarding field analyzers, pyrobolometers.
- Demonstrated success in planning and conducting experiments, analyzing results, extracting physics-based insights, and delivering technical reports or peer-reviewed publications.
- Experience with scientific programming, data analysis, and data visualization using Python (preferred) or similar tools.
- Experience working with standard plasma diagnostic instrumentation and plasma research device infrastructure, including but not limited to: DAQ systems, motorized actuators, power supplies, oscilloscopes, function generators, multi-meters, high-vacuum systems.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret complex datasets.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills for multidisciplinary collaboration.
- Ability to work effectively both independently and in team environments to meet project objectives and deadlines.
Education
- Required: Ph.D. in Plasma Physics, Engineering, or a closely related field.
At TAE Technologies, we consider a wide range of factors when making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and job-related knowledge, training; licenses and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements depending on the position offered . $125,000 - $140,000
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