Plasma Research Engineer - Space Research Technology

Plasma Research Engineer – Space Research Technology

Location:

Martigny, Switzerland

INAUTALENT is supporting the International Space Federation (ISF), a pioneering R&D organization based in Cluses (French Alps), in strengthening its team in Switzerland.
ISF is at the forefront of research on gravity-control propulsion and quantum-vacuum energy, aiming at clean and sustainable energy solutions. Through international academic partnerships, ISF pushes the boundaries of fundamental physics to transform energy production and transportation while addressing global ecological challenges.
The organization operates at the intersection of relativity and quantum mechanics, exploring technologies that could redefine our understanding of the universe. Its mission: turning bold scientific concepts into tangible technologies capable of changing the world.

We are seeking an experienced Plasma Research Engineer to lead the establishment and operation of our dedicated cold plasma laboratory. This role is strongly hands-on and focuses on designing, building, and running experiments aimed at generating and manipulating non-thermal (cold) plasma using high-voltage pulsating discharges, laser-assisted techniques, custom gas mixtures, and rotating electromagnetic fields.

The position requires a deep understanding of plasma physics combined with practical engineering skills, creativity in experimental design, and the ability to translate theoretical concepts into measurable phenomena.

• Design, equip, and commission a complete cold plasma laboratory, including:
  • high-voltage power supplies
  • laser systems
  • gas handling infrastructure
  • vacuum/glass containment setups
  • diagnostic tools
  • safety systems
• Develop and optimise reliable methods for generating stable cold plasma using high-voltage pulsating signals, laser triggering/combination techniques, and tailored in-house gas mixtures.
• Perform advanced experiments involving the manipulation of cold plasma (including spinning or structured plasma using rotating electromagnetic fields) and measure key plasma parameters (temperature, density, electrical characteristics, optical emissions, etc.).
• Design and implement resonant circuits and analog electronic drivers to efficiently excite and control plasma discharges.
• Analyse experimental data, identify underlying physical mechanisms, iterate on experimental setups, and propose next‑step experiments in close collaboration with the physics and engineering teams.
• Ensure all laboratory work adheres to strict safety protocols and regulatory standards for high‑voltage and plasma systems.
• Document procedures, results, and findings to support internal knowledge sharing and potential intellectual property development.

Education:

Master’s or Ph.D. in Plasma Physics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field.

• 7+ years of hands‑on experimental experience in cold/non‑thermal plasma generation and characterization (DBD, RF, microwave, pulsed discharge, or similar techniques).
• Practical knowledge of high‑voltage pulsating power systems and associated analog electronics for plasma excitation.
• Understanding of resonant circuits and impedance matching techniques relevant to plasma discharges.
• Proven ability to independently design, build, troubleshoot, and operate complex physics experiments.
• Strong safety awareness when working with high voltages, vacuum systems, lasers, and reactive gases.

• Hands‑on experience in cold plasma generation using high‑voltage or laser techniques.
• Experience with custom gas mixture preparation, controlled gas handling, and glass/quartz discharge vessels.
• Familiarity with rotating magnetic/electromagnetic field…