Sr Scientist - Neutral Beams

Do Epic Science TAE is the world’s first private fusion energy company, founded in 1998 to commercialize the cleanest, safest, most affordable, and sustainable form of carbon‑free power. The company applies science and engineering to design transformational technologies, from fusion‑based power generation to novel cancer treatments.

About the Role

The next fusion machine at TAE—Da Vinci—requires a powerful neutral beam (NB) injection system. This role involves developing long‑pulse plasma sources (continuous wave), extracting and accelerating systems, and beamline components; conducting plasma source experiments and beam characterization; and performing plasma generation and beam transport simulations.

Responsibilities

• Conduct low‑temperature plasma experiments and simulate plasma generation.
• Develop, study, and optimize ion beam optics.
• Design and simulate new neutral beam systems for future plasma machines, including beam formation, transport, and experimental characterization.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to design NB systems and test subsystems.
• Develop beamline systems such as vacuum systems, beam dumps, and neutralizers.
• Create diagnostics for high‑power NB (secondary electron emission detectors, calorimeters, optical diagnostics, etc.).

Requirements

• PhD (required), preferably in physics, plasma physics, engineering, or a related field.
• Experience with plasma sources and neutral beam injectors.
• Proficiency in designing and operating plasma/beam diagnostics.
• Experience with ion/electron accelerators and beam transport.
• Operation of high‑voltage equipment (>10 kV).
• Numerical simulation of plasma generators, ion/electron beam formation, beam transport, and mechanical/thermal stresses.
• Experience with high‑vacuum and ultra‑high‑vacuum (UHV) systems.
• Knowledge of negative‑ion sources.
• Strong analytical and data‑analysis skills.
• Experience in ion‑beam operation, development, or design.

Preferred Skills

• Hands‑on experience with negative‑ion beam operation.
• Proficiency in programming languages or scripting environments such as Python, MATLAB, or IDL.

Pay

Salary range: $140,000 – $160,000. Compensation decisions consider skill set, experience, knowledge, training, licenses, certifications, and business needs. Additional elements of the total compensation package may be included.

Schedule

Hybrid work arrangement.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) plan with company match.
• Paid vacation and sick time, plus company‑wide December holiday.
• Wellness program and parental leave.
• Payment rewards for referrals, novel research, and patents.
• Collaborative environment with opportunities to work across different groups.
• Potential equity participation.
• HQ located in Southern California with employee events on‑ and off‑site.
• Commitment to an inclusive organization.