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Plasma Physicist: Edge and Divertors

Tokamak Energy
Abingdon
4 months ago
Applications closed

Working arrangements

Please note this role does offer hybrid working, our model sets out a minimum 60% onsite / 40% home working split

Part time working or job share options will be reviewed on an individual basis.

Overview

We are seeking an experienced Plasma Physicist with a background in experimental or computational edge plasma physics, including pedestal stability and transport, SOL physics and divertor heat flux handling, and/or end-to-end design and delivery of tokamak divertors. The successful candidate will contribute to the analysis of ST40 edge and divertor plasmas; the integrated scenario modelling of ST40 and next step devices; and the development of the physics basis for the spherical tokamaks.  Working individually and as part of team towards deliverables that contribute to operations, projects, and product development, in alignment with company objectives and strategy.

Responsibilities:

  • Develop and validate reduced models (including scalings) and computational tools for the edge plasma of spherical tokamaks (including the pedestal and the SOL)
  • Develop core-edge integrated modelling tools and/or carry out modelling related to the design of plasma operating scenarios for ST40 and future devices.
  • Work with a team of physicists and engineers to experimentally characterize the SOL plasma of our record-breaking ST40 tokamak.
  • Work closely with internal and external collaborators.
  • Train, mentor and upskill colleagues.

Requirements

  • PhD in plasma physics or closely related equivalent experience
  • Familiarity with relevant edge plasma modelling codes (e.g. EDGE2D, Hermes-3, SOLPS-ITER, XGC, EPED, ELITE, etc.)
  • Proficient in modern programming languages (C++ or python preferred).
  • Extensive knowledge of the physics of tokamak edge plasmas (fluid and kinetic transport of the SOL, physics of static / RF rectified sheath, pedestal physics etc.)
  • Experience working in a research environment or developing novel technologies

Desirable

  • Experience in experimental scenario development and/or scenario modelling.
  • Experience with integrated modelling frameworks, eg TRANSP, ASTRA, JINTRAC, etc..
  • Familiarity with software development best practices.
  • Experimental data analysis experience.
  • Willingness to develop existing and new collaborations.
  • Track record of scientific publications.

Benefits

  • Salary dependent on skills and experience and will be discussed from the outset 
  • 28 days (inclusive of festive break) holiday plus bank holidays 
  • Eligible for discretionary performance related bonus 
  • Share options scheme 
  • Pension scheme  
  • Financial benefits – including; group life insurance, critical illness, health cash plan and discount scheme   
  • Innovation and Merit bonuses 
  • Investment in training and development to support career progression 
  • Opportunity to work on and contribute to world class innovation 

Hazard-specific / Safety-critical duties

This job includes the following hazards or safety-critical activities which will require successful pre-employment health screening through our occupational health service before the successful candidate will be allowed to start work:

  • Travel outside of Europe or North America on company business.

About Us

What if there was a limitless, safe, clean, low-cost energy source, providing much needed global energy security?  What if that energy source could also help address climate change?  The answer is fusion energy – the power of the stars. Tokamak Energy is a leading global commercial fusion energy company based near Oxford with have an unrivalled track record designing and operating spherical tokamaks; the optimal route to commercial fusion.  

 

In addition to fusion, Tokamak Energy is recognised as a world leader in transformative High Temperature Superconducting (HTS) magnet technology. Our dedicated HTS magnet team, in collaboration with key manufacturing partners, is focussed on enabling new levels of performance and becoming the leading supplier of HTS magnets to multiple markets, including renewable energy, medicine, science and propulsion in water, land, air and space.   

 

The company, founded in 2009 as a spin-off from UK Atomic Energy Authority, currently employs a growing team of over 260 people with experts from the UK and around the world.  It combines world leading scientific, engineering, industrial and commercial capabilities.  The company has more than 75 families of patent applications and has raised $335 million, comprising $275m from private investors and $60m from the UK and U.S. governments.  Our U.S. subsidiary, Tokamak Energy Inc, was established in 2019.  

Come and be a part of a dynamic and innovative team striving to provide a solution to one of humanity’s greatest challenges: clean and sustainable fusion energy for all. 

 

Important information for candidates 

 

Pre-employment screening 

Please note that the appointment of the successful candidate will be subject to standard pre-employment screening, as applicable to the post. This will include right-to-work, proof of identity and references.  

 

Data privacy 

Please note that any personal data submitted to Tokamak Energy as part of the job application process will be processed in accordance with the GDPR and related UK data protection legislation, for more information regarding GDPR please see: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guide-to-the-general-data-protection-regulation  

 

Equality of opportunity 

Entry into employment with the Tokamak Energy and progression within employment will be determined only by personal merit and the application of criteria which are related to the duties of each post and the relevant salary structure. In all cases, ability to perform the job will be the primary consideration. No applicant or member of staff shall be discriminated against because of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. 

National AI Awards 2025

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