Senior Scientist - Experimental Physics

Job Description

Role Purpose

Having successfully launched the FLARE inertial fusion reactor plan, First Light Fusion is now looking to hit key demonstration milestones including isentropic compression of liquid deuterium fuel on the existing 10 MA pulsed power machine. This will enable partners and fund-raising for larger scale tests towards high gain demonstration. The Experimental Department is responsible for designing, fielding, diagnosing, and analysing these experiments and other diagnostic variants to benchmark our simulations.

First Light, in addition to the core fusion mission, is pursuing commercialisation through diversified, dual use products for near term revenue.

This role is for a senior pulsed-power scientist with expertise in high energy density physics experiments. You will be responsible for designing and performing experiments to investigate pulsed-power driven implosion dynamics, machine coupling and power flow. In-depth knowledge and practical expertise in fielding magnetic, electrical, optical and particle-based diagnostics in the harsh environment of a pulsed-power experiment is required. Experience in designing, modelling and testing dielectric interfaces and transmission lines to optimise the performance of MA-class, high voltage pulsed-power machines is highly desirable. You will report to the Head of Experimental Physics. 

In this role you will work and coordinate with the other experimental scientists and other departments. You will be responsible creating, leading, reporting on and delivering experimental projects.

We are committed to diversity and offer flexible working as well as considering part time roles. Some home working is possible, however due to the laboratory-based nature of the role it is expected that most time will be spent on site.

Responsibilities will include:

• Designing and carrying out experiments to optimise diagnose and investigate shock physics phenomena on First Light Fusion's pulsed power machines.
• Developing new, best-in-class, diagnostics, techniques, and pulsed power capabilities.
• Helping to provide strategic vision for pulsed power driven fusion physics within the company.
• Working closely with simulations and theory, typically within other departments.
• Coordination within the Experimental and Operations Departments.

Essential

• PhD in Physics, Engineering, or similar industrial experience.
• Experience working in a laboratory-based team.
• Knowledge of plasma physics theory.
• Knowledge of pulsed power theory.
• Knowledge and experience, both with the theory and application of, pulsed power diagnostics such as ultra high-speed imaging, radiography, spectroscopy, B dots, Faraday.
• Experience working in relevant physics regimes with shocks.
• Knowledge of health and safety.
• Passion for fusion and for taking a bold approach to a high-risk transformational technology.
• Fast and effective problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work under pressure to tight deadlines.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Desirable

• Demonstrated ability to deliver to agreed objectives and manage resources using project management techniques.
• Experience using simulations to refine and analyse experiments.
• An understanding of Pulsed Power, especially at a large scale.
• Advanced knowledge of Plasma Physics and High Energy Density Physics.