Staff Engineer​/Physicist - Nuclear Fusion Research

Position Overview

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. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in computational magneto hydrodynamics (MHD) and will contribute to advancing our understanding and development of various nuclear fusion energy production processes.

Omaha, NE

Preferred start date:
October 1, 2026. The candidate may start as early as August 3, 2026, with a firm latest start date of December 1, 2026.

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

• 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‑principle 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.

• 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 magneto hydrodynamics 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.

• Active US DoD Secret or Top Secret clearance.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities