Senior Research Scientist

Zap Energy•Everett, WA

5h•$140,000 - $175,000

About The Position

As a Senior Research Scientist, you’ll be at the heart of our mission— defining global science strategies with other leaders, developing fusion concept and scenarios, designing next generation fusion prototypes, developing, running, and analyzing experiments that push the boundaries of plasma physics and fusion technology, coordinating with a strong theory team to validate, benchmark and scale plasma performance, and communicating progress with internal and external stakeholders. Your work will help us understand complex systems, validate models, and uncover insights that move us closer to sustainable energy.

Requirements

PhD in plasma physics or closely related field and 7-10+ years of relevant experience
Demonstrated ability to plan and lead complex, cross-functional projects
Experience correlating scientific experimental results with theoretical simulations and models
Familiarity with plasma theory and computational models either as user or as collaborator
Strong foundation in plasma physics and fusion science
Hands-on experience with experimental design and data analysis
Creative problem solving and proven ability to thrive in fast-paced, collaborative environments
Clear communicator who enjoys turning complex ideas into actionable insights

Nice To Haves

Experience with Z-Pinch fusion research, analysis, experimentation, and modeling
Fusion plasma diagnostics
Pulsed power systems
High-voltage instrumentation
Computational plasma modeling

Responsibilities

Define scientific strategy and development plans, pushing forward Zap’s fusion concept using both experimental and modeling workflows
Effectively progress from concept to design and lead experimental campaigns on advanced fusion devices, leveraging insight from theory and modeling
Manage or lead the design, fielding, and operations of multiple plasma diagnostic systems (interferometry, spectroscopy, neutronics, Thomson scattering, magnetics, etc.)
Collaborate cross-functionally across the R&D organization and other technical and non-technical teams
Work closely with research engineers and diagnosticians to integrate systems and optimize experimental setups
Manage and/or perform data analysis, reduction, error propagation, publication, and presentation of experimental results, including computational results