Staff Engineer/Physicist 2 - Nuclear Fusion Research

About the role

Applied Research Associates, Inc., is seeking a highly motivated and experienced mid-career physicist or engineer with 5-10 years of expertise in applications of plasma physics to both pulsed and continuous fusion energy production.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct research on nuclear fusion processes, including Inertial Confinement Fusion (ICF), Magnetic Confinement Fusion (MCF), and Magnetized Target Fusion (MTF)
• Analyze and model plasma behavior in Field Reversed Configurations (FRC) and its stability under adiabatic compression
• Investigate the cross sections and reactivity of various fuels that primarily undergo aneutronic fusion, contributing to the development of a compact clean energy source
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to design and implement experiments and simulations, along with specialized diagnostics related to MTF fusion energy production
• Develop and apply empirically based predictive MHD models to enhance the understanding of plasma stability and performance
• Apply first-principles computer codes, e.g., ALEGRA, to support research and development efforts. Perform such calculations to help design and interpret laboratory and field experiments
• Mentor junior researchers, promoting knowledge transfer within the team

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. or better in Physics or Engineering in relevant field
• 5-10 years of relevant research experience in applications of nuclear physics
• In-depth understanding of high temperature plasma physics
• Proficiency in magnetohydrodynamics and experience with predictive modeling techniques, including first-principles MHD computer codes
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment
• Ability to obtain a DoD security clearance

Desired Qualifications

• Active US DoD Secret or Top Secret clearance

Benefits Package

• 401(k) Retirement Plan with employer matching contribution
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan
• Variety of insurance options including Health Insurance, Flexible Spending Plan, Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Paid leave and holidays