Pulsed Power Physicist
Xcimer Energy leverages decades of research on Inertial Fusion Energy (IFE) combined with groundbreaking new laser architecture. Our mission is to deploy fusion power plants to meet global decarbonization goals as fast as possible. This is a full-time, onsite role based at our headquarters in Denver, CO.
About the role
As a Pulsed Power Physicist, you will work on the science and engineering of electron-beam cathode systems for Xcimer's pulsed power driven inertial fusion energy program. The core goal is maximizing beam efficiency and energy deposition on target. You will lead cathode development across multiple emitter technologies, design and optimize hibachi foil/anode structures for beam transport, and build complex experimental systems from concept through commissioning. This role carries significant independent scientific responsibility. We want someone who is strong in both theory and experiment and rigorous about documentation.
Responsibilities
- Optimize beam efficiency and energy deposition on target
- Lead design, fabrication, and testing of cathode systems across multiple emitter technologies (explosive emission, thermionic, photocathodes)
- Design and optimize hibachi foil/anode grid structures for beam transport efficiency
- Lead experimental campaigns end-to-end
- Develop and validate cathode and beam transport models (analytical, PIC, SPICE) to guide design decisions; roughly equal balance of modeling and experimental work
- Operate and maintain UHV vacuum systems (target < 10^-9 Torr) including bakeout, leak checking, and pumping systems
- Survey prior art on emitter technologies, beam transport, and cathode physics
- Own experimental program documentation: test reports, design records, operating procedures, and data management
- Manage hardware procurement, BOM tracking, and vendor relationships for cathode subsystems
- Interface with potential commercial emitter suppliers on procurement, packaging, and quality
- Support integration of cathode systems into larger diode and laser architectures
Qualifications
- Education: PhD in physics, electrical engineering, or closely related field (MS with exceptional relevant experience considered)
- Deep expertise in beam diagnostics (Faraday cups, beam imaging, energy analysis, calorimetry)
- Hands-on experience with vacuum electronics and electron-beam generation
- Able to independently design experiments, interpret results, and write up findings clearly
- Experience building and commissioning complex experimental systems end-to-end (mechanical, electrical, vacuum, controls)
- Familiarity with high-voltage pulsed power systems (100 kV+)
- Proficiency with lab instrumentation (SMUs, oscilloscopes, HV power supplies)
- Comfortable working across mechanical, electrical, and physics domains in a small team
- Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum
Skills
- Direct experience with explosive emission or cold cathode technologies
- Familiarity with semiconductor fabrication processes
- Experience with PIC or beam optics simulation codes (e.g., Chicago, CST, COMSOL)
- Background in beam transport optimization
- Track record of thorough technical documentation and hardware program management (procurement, scheduling, vendor coordination)
- Background in excimer laser or inertial fusion energy systems
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Basic and supplemental life insurance
- Short- and long-term disability
- Paid parental leave for employees at the time of birth or adoption
- 401(k) with a company match of up to 6%
- Equity for eligible employees
- Flexible Paid Time Off (ATO) approach
- Paid sick time
- 13 company-paid holidays
- Annual paid company shutdown
Benefits are available to regular employees, including part-time and fixed-term roles, as well as interns, with eligibility varying by benefit.