Research Scientist

Madison, WI

About the role

Join Realta Fusion and help shape the future of fusion energy through advanced theory and computation. As a Research Scientist, you’ll bridge simulation and experiment to drive groundbreaking progress on our next-generation magnetic mirror devices. Realta Fusion is a rapidly growing start-up developing compact magnetic mirror fusion energy systems to address the biggest challenge of our time – tackling global climate change while ensuring a sufficient energy supply for at least ten billion people on (and off) earth. We are building a team with diverse talents dedicated to making fusion energy a real solution to humanity’s most pressing problem. Position Summary This Scientist will contribute to several theoretical and computational projects to advance the physics basis for the high-field axisymmetric magnetic mirror. This work will include validation of computational models with experimental data from the currently operating Wisconsin HTS Axisymmetric Mirror (WHAM) at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, proposing new experimental campaigns and plasma diagnostics to be fielded on WHAM to aid in validation efforts, and using computational modelling to guide the design of future axisymmetric mirror device at Realta Fusion called Hammir. This role will include participating in collaborations with external research groups at both national laboratories and universities, publishing work in peer-reviewed journals and disseminating results at conferences.

Responsibilities 1. Lead and participate in theoretical and computational projects to advance the physics basis for the axisymmetric mirror, with a focus on model validation. 2. Bridge experimental data analysis and modelling results for the purposes of high-fidelity model validation and uncertainty quantification. 3. Employ state-of-the-art computational models to understand and explain experimental observations & trends. 4. Conduct literature reviews, prepare reports and materials and disseminate information to appropriate entities. 5. Identify, write, or assist in developing grant opportunities, grant applications, proposals and other materials to secure funding in a startup-environment. 6. Publish and present results to advance research and ensure credibility for our work in the field of plasma physics & fusion energy. 7. Serve as an institutional subject matter expert and liaison with key internal and external stakeholders providing expert level information and representing the interests of a specialized research area. 8. Culture and Values: Foster a positive and inclusive work environment that aligns with the company's mission, values, and sustainability goals, promoting innovation, collaboration, and employee engagement. Required

Qualifications 1. Education: PhD in Plasma Physics, or a related field + minimum of 3 years’ experience in theoretical and computational plasma physics research. 2. Experience with computational model validation and uncertainty quantification. 3. Strong familiarity with experimental plasma diagnostics (e.g. bolometers, electrostatic ion energy analyzers, interferometers, magnetic measurements) and analysis techniques. 4. Understanding of magnetically confined fusion plasma heating and technologies, such as bias-induced rotation, electron cyclotron heating, neutral beam injection, and RF heating. 5. Collaboration: Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal) to collaborate effectively with colleagues, external partners, and stakeholders. 6. Demonstration of innovation capacity through IP generated and/or publications in the field.

Compensation &

Benefits What we are working on is hard… and hugely important. Realta Fusion is assembling a talented team bound together by a passion to solve humanity’s biggest challenge with first-of-a-kind technology. Additionally, Realta offers: Competitive

compensation package, including equity stock options Comprehensive

benefits including health, dental, and vision insurance, plus a 401(k) Flexible paid time off (PTO) to support work-life balance Work and live in Madison, Wisconsin — one of America’s most livable and vibrant cities We value diversity as a critical factor in innovation and believe a diverse team is necessary to solve the toughest problems. We aim to create an inclusive environment that unleashes the full creativity of our team members from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences. We provide equal employment opportunities to all individuals based on merit and without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable laws.

About Realta Fusion

Realta Fusion develops fusion energy technology for the production of industrial heat and power. It applies advances in super-conducting materials, plasma physics, and computing power to a simple linear fusion reactor configuration. It utilizes abundant fuel sources to provide a zero-carbon source of heat and power.

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Job details

Location

Madison, WI

Company

NameRealta Fusion
IndustryEnergy
Team Size2

Funding

Total raised

$54.5M

Last stage

Series A

Investors

FFuture Ventures
Khosla Ventures
MMayfield
WWisconsin Alumni Research Foundation
TTitletownTech

Founders

KF

Kieran Furlong

CEO & Co-Founder

LinkedIn
CF

Cary Forest

CSO & Co-Founder

LinkedIn
OS

Oliver Schmitz

Co-Founder

What happens next.

No applications, no recruiter spam. Just the intro.

01

Confirm the fit

A few questions to make sure this role is the right shape for you. Two minutes.

02

I pitch you to the company

I write the intro, send it to the founder, and handle the back-and-forth.

03

A meeting lands on your calendar

If they’re a yes, I book the chat. You show up — that’s the whole job-hunt.