Staff Scientist - Plasma Material Interaction

About the role

Commonwealth Fusion Systems is on a mission to deliver the urgent transition to fusion energy. Combining decades of research, top talent, and new technologies, we’re designing and building commercially viable fusion power plants. And we're working with policymakers, suppliers, and many others to build the energy industry of the future. We’re in the best position to make it happen. Since 2018, we’ve raised $4 billion of capital, making us the largest and leading fusion company in the world. Now we’re looking for more thinkers, doers, builders, and makers to join us. People who’ll bring new perspectives, solve tough problems, and thrive as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Build computational workflows to predict PFC material degradation under plasma loading conditions, and subsequent impact on plasma performance
• Build computational workflows to predict PFC material degradation under neutron irradiation
• Support ARC design team by running predictive models to inform PFC material lifetime estimates, component shaping, and consequences of overloading
• Conduct experimental tests of candidate ARC materials at test facilities around the world, including PMI, heat loads, and neutron irradiation
• Leverage SPARC experimental data to benchmark predictive models used for ARC design and optimization
• Develop interpretive models used to infer PFC material state from power plant relevant diagnostics
• Serve as a bridge between the Plasma Physics Department, Materials Science Department, and Nuclear Engineering Department at CFS
• Manage collaborations with universities, national labs, and private companies, around the world
• Present scientific results at technical conferences and in peer‑reviewed publications

Requirements

• Perform extended activities such as typing, standing, sitting, etc.
• Willingness to travel or work required nights/weekends/on‑call occasionally
• Work in a facility that contains industrial hazards including heat, cold, noise, fumes, strong magnets, lead (Pb), high voltage, high current, pressure systems, and cryogenics

Qualifications

PhD required; based in Devens, MA. Work focuses on tungsten and other plasma‑facing components. Key techniques include thermal desorption spectroscopy, SEM/TEM, and post‑irradiation examination.