Sr Scientist, Plasma Control

TAE Technologies•Irvine, CA

38d•Onsite

About The Position

Do Epic Science TAE is the world’s first private fusion energy company, founded in 1998 to commercialize the cleanest, safest, most affordable, and sustainable form of carbon-free power. We are applying science and engineering to design transformational technologies. Whether it's harnessing fusion through the science of stars, making exponential leaps in power efficiency, or innovating medical care with a novel cancer treatment: We're turning the promise of science into reality. We’re looking for candidates who are passionate about realizing our mission: A future where all people have affordable access to reliable, abundant, and environmentally friendly fusion-generated electricity. About The Role We currently have an opening at our, Foothill Ranch, Orange County CA facility for the position of Sr Scientist of Plasma Control. The primary task of the Plasma Control Team is to maintain and advance the development of the Real-time Plasma Control System (RTPCS) for TAE’s current generation fusion device and to design next generation systems. The RTPCS integrates many plasma diagnostics, including magnetic probes, neutral beam diagnostics, and measurements of plasma density, with plasma actuators, including magnetic coils, neutral beam injectors, biasing electrodes and fueling valves, into a holistic control system to achieve prescribed plasma performance and maintain stability. The RTPCS uses a combination of deterministic calculation based on electromagnetism and inference, so a good understanding of electromagnetism as well as a firm command of modern Bayesian and ML methods is required. This role bridges fusion energy science and plasma physics with advanced non-linear control concepts making use of cutting-edge control technology, especially FPGA-based architectures of embedded systems. The successful candidate will therefore need a strong background in both areas. Additionally, as advances in the RTPCS are expected to involve greater AI inference, knowledge of advanced mathematical and computational AI/ML methods is a must.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Physics or related field
Demonstrated experience in experimental plasma physics and magnetic confinement fusion research
Proven expertise in real-time control systems, including FPGA-based hardware and firmware development
Experience in programming multitasking Real-Time Operating Systems and embedded control systems.
Proficient in embedded C/C++ programming
Knowledge of system design for embedded platforms established on Model-Based Design approaches (Matlab, Simulink, Stateflow)
Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills
Demonstrated knowledge of good engineering practices and procedures
Strong documenting and organizational skills
Must have the ability to multitask and think in a fast-paced environment

Responsibilities

Work with leadership of Plasma Control Team, developing strategy, design, integration, and execution of the Real-time Plasma Control System on C-2W
Collaborate closely with the experimental team to define and implement control algorithms addressing plasma stability, confinement, and performance optimization
Maintain and advance the capabilities of the Real-time Plasma Control System on C-2W
Design and develop next generation RTPS for future TAE fusion devices
Coordinate the work of a multidisciplinary team of physicists, engineers, and computer scientists, fostering innovation in advanced control approaches
Publish findings, present at scientific conferences, and engage with the broader fusion community to advance plasma control capabilities
Provide expertise in aligning plasma control development with organizational milestones toward commercial fusion energy
Maintain awareness of technological developments relevant to the control of fusion plasmas
Seek and foster relationships with external partners in the areas of control of fusion plasmas