Fuse Computational Plasma Physicist developing and applying PIC and MHD simulations for MagLIF, Z-pinch, and high-energy-density physics experiments. Collaborates with experimental and pulsed-power teams to guide fusion machine design.
Responsibilities
Fuse is the first private company building a fusion facility based on Magnetized Liner Inertial Fusion (MagLIF), an approach proven through a decade of simulation and experiments at Sandia National Laboratories. Our work spans Impedance Matched Marx Generator (IMG) drivers, MagLIF and the broader high-energy-density physics (HEDP) that governs how our machines compress and heat fusion fuel. We are building an in-house computational physics capability to model that physics end to end, from the pulsed-power driver to the imploding load to the fusion burn. As a Computational Plasma Physicist, you will develop and apply PIC and MHD simulations of MagLIF, Z-pinch and HEDP experiments, working shoulder to shoulder with our experimental, pulsed-power and target teams to interpret what we measure and design what we build next. This is a high-ownership role with direct influence on our experimental program and machine design.
Obsess about the details — sloppy work costs us later, so do it right the first time.
Care — pick up the trash. Do things no one asks you to do. Go the extra mile because you care.
Act with urgency — every hour matters more than it feels like it does.
Be responsible for the outcome, not just the task; if it is not working, it remains your problem until it is fixed.
Assume good intent — disagree openly, then commit fully once a call is made.
CORE RESPONSIBILITIES
Run and analyze hybrid, PIC and MHD simulations of MagLIF, liner, wire-array and Z-pinch implosions, and of the HEDP conditions they produce.
Develop, extend and optimize simulation codes to improve physical fidelity, numerical accuracy and computational efficiency.
Translate simulation output into physical insight that guides real decisions: implosion dynamics, instability growth, magnetic flux compression, preheat and fusion yield.
Partner with experimentalists to design campaigns and interpret results, closing the loop between simulation and measurement.
Model the full chain where relevant, from pulsed-power driver through load to burn, with the driver and target teams.
Qualification
PhA track record of rigorousBackground in instability analysis (MRTStrong peer-reviewed publication recordADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Required
Ph.D. in Physics, Plasma Physics, Computational Science or a related field.
Strong foundation in plasma physics and HEDP, with direct experience in MHD and/or PIC modeling of liner, wire-array or pinch implosions.
Hands-on experience with high-performance computing and parallel programming.
Proficiency in scientific programming in Fortran, C++ and Python.
A track record of rigorous, well-communicated research and strong collaboration across a multidisciplinary team.
Preferred
Direct experience with MagLIF or other HEDP / ICF experiments.
Familiarity with simulation tools such as LSP, CHICAGO, HYDRA, FLASH, GORGON, MACH2 or comparable radiation-MHD / PIC codes.
Experience coupling pulsed-power circuit models to load simulations.
Background in instability analysis (MRT, electrothermal), magnetized transport, or equation-of-state / opacity modeling.
Strong peer-reviewed publication record.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
This is not a remote position and will require relocation if not already local to Fuse's San Leandro, CA facility.
Occasional travel to other Fuse locations and partner facilities.
