Theoretical Plasma Physicist – Fusion Research

About Us

At nT-Tao, we are building a compact magnetic confinement fusion power system: a modular, repeatable unit designed to deliver clean electricity on-site, on- or off-grid. Getting there means solving hard, open problems in plasma physics, and that is the work our physicist's lead.

Founded in 2019, nT-Tao raised $34 million to date from Honda, East X Ventures, Delek US, NextGear Ventures, and others. The Israel Innovation Authority has awarded us repeated grants, most recently to build our next compact fusion demonstrator.

Position Overview

We are looking for a Theoretical Plasma Physicist to join our multidisciplinary R&D team and contribute to the physics design, modelling, simulation, and optimization of our fusion systems.

The role combines theoretical research, numerical modelling, close collaboration with experimental physicists and engineers, and close collaboration with leading academic groups.

You  will investigate fundamental plasma processes, develop predictive models, interpret experimental observations, and translate theoretical insights into practical design requirements and R&D decisions.

The position offers an opportunity to work on challenging plasma physics problems while directly influencing the development of experimental fusion prototypes and future fusion energy systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop theoretical and computational models of magnetically confined plasmas, including plasma equilibrium, stability, transport, confinement, and heating.
• Perform numerical simulations to investigate plasma behaviour and optimize magnetic configurations and operating conditions.
• Study plasma heating and current-drive mechanisms, including inductive, RF, and other relevant heating methods.
• Investigate plasma dynamics, electromagnetic interactions, nonlinear phenomena, and their implications for confinement and performance.
• Translate theoretical predictions and simulation results into physical requirements, engineering specifications, and experimental recommendations.
• Collaborate closely with experimental physicists to design experiments, interpret measurements, and validate theoretical models against experimental observations.
• Conduct literature reviews, evaluate new theoretical approaches, and apply relevant developments in plasma and fusion research.
• Document and present theoretical results, technical conclusions, and recommendations to the R&D team and management.
• Collaborate with academic and research partners in Israel and internationally.

Required Qualifications and Skills

• M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Physics, Plasma Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a closely related field. Ph.D. preferred.
• Strong background in theoretical physics, electromagnetism, and/or mathematical modelling of physical systems.
• Proven experience developing or using numerical simulations to investigate physical phenomena.
• Ability to independently study complex physical problems, develop mathematical models, and implement computational solutions.
• Good scientific communication skills, including technical documentation, presentation of results, and scientific writing.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary R&D environment.

Advantages

• Experience with hydrodynamic and/or electromagnetic simulations.
• Experience developing or using plasma simulation codes, including Magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) and Particle-in-Cell (PIC) simulations.
• Experience developing numerical solvers for partial differential equations, including Maxwell's equations, fluid dynamics, or kinetic equations.
• Experience with high-performance computing, parallel computing, or large-scale numerical simulations.