Sr Scientist - Neutral Beams

About the Role

The next fusion machine in TAE – Da Vinci, requires a powerful NB injecting system. You will participate in development of the long pulse plasma sources (CW), extracting and accelerating systems, and beamline components. You will conduct experiments with the plasma source and beam characterization, and do plasma generation and beam transport simulation.

• Conduct low temperature plasma experiments and simulate plasma generation.
• Develop, study, and optimize ion beam optics.
• Develop a new NB for the future plasma machine: simulations of beam formation and transport; experimental characterization of beam parameters; design NB systems with the engineering team; carry out experiments to test NB subsystems.
• Develop beamline systems – vacuum systems, beam dumps, neutralizers, etc.
• Develop diagnostics for the high-power NB (secondary electron emission detectors, calorimeters, optical diagnostics, etc.).

• Experience with plasma sources and neutral beam injectors; 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, mechanical/thermal stresses.
• High vacuum systems, UHV.
• Negative ion sources.
• Excellent analytical and data analysis skills.
• Experience in ion beam operation/development/design; preferred hands‑on negative ion beam operation.
• Experience with various programming languages/scripts/macros and systems such as Python, Matlab, or IDL.

• PhD required
  ; preferred in physics, plasma physics, engineering, or related field.

• Medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with company match.
• Paid vacation and sick time, company wide December holiday, wellness program, parental leave.
• Payment rewards for referrals, novel research, and patents.
• Collaborative environment with cross‑group collaboration.
• Potential for equity participation.
• HQ in Southern California.
• Employee events on and off‑site.
• Commitment to an inclusive organization.

TAE Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status. We ensure all individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, perform essential job functions, and receive other benefits and privileges of employment.