Plasma Control Scientist

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 have an opening at our Foothill Ranch, CA (Orange County) facility for a Plasma Dynamics and Control Scientist. The selected candidate will develop control-oriented models for FRC plasma dynamics, as well as control algorithms, observers and sensing techniques using a variety of tools from physics based to machine learning. The Plasma Dynamics and Control Scientist will collaborate on the experimental campaign designing and conducting experiments, analyzing and interpreting the data, and supporting operations with the real time plasma control system. This position is hybrid with 3 days on-site. 

• Identifies requirements and analyze data from the experimental fusion machine to be used in modelling.
• Develops and improves models for plasma dynamics, using physics models, system identification and machine learning techniques.
• Develops methods for automated model validation and testing.
• Defines and quantifies model limitations and uncertainties.
• Develops observers for plasma control using advanced mathematical techniques, such as Kalman filters, Bayesian inference and machine learning techniques.
• Develops plasma discharge guidance and control algorithms to improve plasma performance consistently and reliably, using physics insight, advanced mathematical tools, machine learning tools, numerical simulations and experimental tests.
• Specifies and contributes to the high level implementation of observers, guidance and control algorithms in the plasma control platform, an FPGA based system programmable using high-level language interfaces (MATLAB/ Simulink, C, Python).
• Participates actively on the experimental campaigns; proposing, designing, conducting and analyzing guidance and plasma control experiments.
• Drives and assists plasma control operations during experimental campaigns.
• Presents incremental research progress internally and to external scientific evaluators when required.
• Contributes to the documentation of the onboarding guides and plasma control system.
• Promotes an open-minded atmosphere in the group by sharing knowledge among colleagues and training less experience hires.
• Communicates and documents experimental proposals, progress and research results using TAE’s web collaboration tools.
• Contributes to TAE patent portfolio by writing patent disclosure documents.
• Publishes research results in international conferences and high impact scientific publications.
• Helps with the team expansion contributing actively during interviewing and selection processes.
• Brings projects to completion within specified timelines, reporting progress and or delays promptly.

About You

• At least 2 years’ experience designing, implementing and testing complex control systems in large scale industrial, aerospace, automotive or scientific systems, including observers and modeling of complex system dynamics. 
• Deep knowledge of model-based control system design, implementation in embedded systems and testing.
• Solid background in Bayesian inference and uncertainty quantification.
• Knowledge of one or more machine learning platforms.
• Proficient in MATLAB and Simulink as applied to system dynamics modeling and control systems design.
• Knowledge of at least one more high level programming language used in scientific applications ( C, python, Julia, etc).
• Understanding of magnetic sensors, plasma diagnostics, plasma dynamics and actuator systems as applied to plasma control would be beneficial.

Nice to have

• Understanding of magnetic sensors, plasma diagnostics
• Familiarity with collaborative tools such as Confluence / Jira
• Knowledge of Linux-based systems
• Debugging, performance optimization, and unit testing skills
• FPGA development (Verilog/VHDL) and add C/C++.
• Familiarity with memory controllers, DMA, schematics and component data sheets.
• Familiarity with building and managing codebases using GIT

Education

•  Required: Ph.D. in mechanical, electrical, aerospace, or related fields.  

About Us: 

Imagination, skill, and will

We are a diverse team of over 500 engineers, scientists, professionals, Maxwell Prize winners, and big thinkers from more than 40 countries with a track record of delivering on the innovative ways science can lead humanity into a brighter era. We are not afraid to envision a future where fusion and science can transform our world.

What you’ll get with us

• Generous benefits such as Medical, Dental, Vision, 401 (K) with company match, paid vacation + sick time, companywide December holiday, wellness program, parental leave
• Payment rewards: For referring talent, novel research, and patents
• A collaborative environment: An organization where talents and interests can plug in to different groups throughout the organization
• Potential for equity participation
• HQ in Southern California
• Employee events on and off-site
• A commitment to upholding and growing an inclusive organization

Learn more
tae.com
Our podcast Good Clean Energy
Instagram
LinkedIn

TAE Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

We ensure all individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, perform essential job functions, and receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us recruiting@tae.com to request accommodations or request more information.

Note to Agencies: TAE prefers to hire directly and maintains an existing preferred supplier list. We do not accept speculative CVs or referrals from agencies. If speculative CVs are sent, no fee will be applicable.