Question 1

What does the Computational Plasma Physicist role at Realta Fusion involve?

Accepted Answer

The Senior Theoretical & Computational Scientist at Realta Fusion leads theoretical and computational projects to advance the physics basis for the company's high-field axisymmetric magnetic mirror. The role validates computational models against experimental data from the WHAM device and proposes new experimental campaigns and diagnostics. It also guides the design of Realta's future device, Hammir, through computational modelling.

Question 2

What is WHAM and how does it relate to this role?

Accepted Answer

WHAM, the Wisconsin HTS Axisymmetric Mirror, is a currently operating experimental device at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. The Computational Plasma Physicist role at Realta Fusion validates theoretical and computational models against WHAM's experimental data, and proposes new experimental campaigns and plasma diagnostics to be fielded on the device.

Question 3

What is Realta Fusion building?

Accepted Answer

Realta Fusion is a start-up developing compact magnetic mirror fusion energy systems, currently operating the WHAM device and developing a future axisymmetric mirror device called Hammir. The Computational Plasma Physicist role sits at the centre of this work, using theoretical and computational modelling to validate physics and guide Hammir's design.

Question 4

What salary does Realta Fusion offer for this role?

Accepted Answer

Realta Fusion has not published a salary figure for the Computational Plasma Physicist role. The position does include a competitive compensation package with equity stock options, comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k), and flexible paid time off.

Question 5

What experience and qualifications does Realta Fusion require for this role?

Accepted Answer

Realta Fusion requires a PhD in Plasma Physics or a related field, plus a minimum of 5 years' experience in theoretical and computational plasma physics research, for this Senior Theoretical & Computational Scientist role. Candidates need extensive experience with MHD equilibrium and stability calculations, and familiarity with simulation codes such as NIMROD, JOREK, WarpX, VPIC, Genray, AORSA, or CQL3D. Demonstrated innovation through IP or publications is also required.

Question 6

What level is the Computational Plasma Physicist role at Realta Fusion?

Accepted Answer

This is a Senior-level position at Realta Fusion, requiring a PhD and at least 5 years of research experience. The role carries significant responsibility for leading theoretical and computational projects and external collaborations, though no formal headcount management is specified in the listing.

Question 7

Where is this role located and is it remote?

Accepted Answer

The Computational Plasma Physicist role is based onsite at Realta Fusion's facility in Madison, Wisconsin. It is a full-time position and is not offered as a remote or hybrid role.

Question 8

Why is validating axisymmetric mirror physics a hard technical challenge?

Accepted Answer

Realta Fusion needs to validate MHD equilibrium, linear stability, and extended-MHD models against real experimental data from WHAM before extrapolating that physics basis to a larger future device, Hammir. This requires combining multiple simulation approaches, including Fokker-Planck, particle-in-cell, and RF heating codes, with plasma diagnostics data and proposed new experimental campaigns to close the gap between theory and hardware performance.

Question 9

What disciplines does this role span and who will the candidate collaborate with?

Accepted Answer

The Computational Plasma Physicist role spans theoretical plasma physics, computational modelling, and experimental diagnostics design. It requires close collaboration with Realta Fusion's experimental physics, engineering, and business leadership teams, as well as external research groups at national laboratories and universities.

Question 10

How do I apply for the Computational Plasma Physicist role at Realta Fusion?

Accepted Answer

Candidates can apply for the Senior Theoretical & Computational Scientist role at Realta Fusion through the listing on Fusion Future at fusion-future.com/jobs/jobs-realta-fusion-computational-plasma-physicist, which links directly to Realta Fusion's official application page.