Research Scientist (Theory)
Zap EnergyEverett, Washington, United States
Posted November 13, 2025
100000 - 150000 USD year
Full Time
About the Company
Zap Energy is developing a cost-effective, compact, and scalable fusion reactor that eliminates the need for magnetic confinement, aiming to accelerate the commercialization of fusion power. The company integrates expertise in plasma physics, pulsed power, mechanical and electrical engineering, and data science to design and optimize its novel reactor architecture. By focusing on non-magnetic, high-temperature plasma confinement, Zap Energy differentiates itself from traditional tokamak approaches, offering a potentially faster and more economical path to sustainable nuclear energy. Its multidisciplinary team embraces emerging technologies and data-driven insights to drive innovation, positioning Zap Energy at the forefront of the renewable energy and sustainability landscape.
Job Description
Zap Energy is seeking a Research Scientist (Theory) to advance our understanding of Z-pinch operation and develop fluid and kinetic plasma models that guide experimental design and operation. The successful candidate will play a critical role in predicting key plasma behaviors and informing strategies for sustaining stable fusion conditions.
Requirements
- Develop and implement models that capture essential physics in the formation and sustainment of the sheared-flow-stabilized Z-pinch
- Build computational tools and techniques for simulating pulsed power flow, compression physics, shock heating, turbulent transport, plasma sheaths, atomic and molecular reactions, two-fluid effects, and 3D phenomena
- Validate models against experimental data and refine predictive capabilities
- Collaborate with experimental teams to integrate modeling insights into device design and operation
- Share findings through publications and presentations at conferences
Benefits
- Competitive compensation
- Matching retirement contributions
- Premium health insurance
- Flexible vacation and paid company holidays
