Plasma Physicist
WHO WE ARE
Proxima Fusion is Europe’s fastest-growing fusion company and the continent’s best-funded fusion player, as well as the first spin-out from the Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics (IPP). Backed by over €650M and powered by a growing team across Munich, Zurich, and Oxford, we are developing the hardware and infrastructure needed to deliver the world’s first commercial stellarator fusion power plant.
Our concept advances the most mature fusion technology out there, the Wendelstein 7-X stellarator, through two next-generation machines: Alpha and Stellaris. Our work combines stellarator optimization, advanced computation, machine learning, and high-temperature superconducting magnets to unlock higher-performance designs that were previously out of reach.
Turning these designs into a functioning fusion power plant requires excellence and ownership across every discipline, from physics and engineering to software, manufacturing, law, and business functions.
TEAM AND ROLE
Shape the architecture of the world’s first commercial fusion power plant - Own system-level decisions that determine how a first-of-a-kind energy technology is designed, integrated, and ultimately deployed at scale.
Solve some of the most complex engineering challenges in industry - Work across tightly coupled disciplines (plasma physics, magnets, cryogenics, manufacturing, controls, and more) to resolve critical trade-offs and turn cutting-edge science into a functioning product.
Build real hardware with a pragmatic, fast-moving team from all over the world - Combine advanced simulation and systems thinking with a strong execution mindset, focusing on practical engineering solutions that accelerate the path to commercial fusion energy.
YOUR IMPACT
We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Plasma Physicist to join our stellarator design team at Proxima Fusion. We are designing a net-energy stellarator as a research and engineering platform on the path toward a fusion power plant.
This role is crucial to driving our mission to design, build, and operate the device. As a Plasma Physicist, you will lead the conceptualization and development of key scientific analysis workflows and contribute to novel research in magnetic confinement fusion.
Proxima Fusion is committed to publishing its scientific results to accelerate the entire fusion ecosystem, openly collaborating with academic partners, and contributing to public trust in fusion energy.
WHY JOIN PROXIMA FUSION
You will get to work on some of the most complex tech challenges to bring abundant, safe, clean energy to the world.
You'll get to join and learn from an exceptional selection of accomplished and driven individuals.
Do your life’s best work and enjoy the journey.
Get to show that big things are possible in Europe when you assemble the best talent.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
Contribute to the definition of requirements and conceptualize the design of critical stellarator components such as heating systems and divertors.
Develop and enhance our physics and engineering simulation stack.
Collaborate with partners from public institutions to foster innovation and knowledge exchange.
Mentor team members and guide them in achieving project milestones.
WHO YOU ARE
We are looking for high performers who love challenges and see these as learning opportunities.
It is important not to be afraid to experiment, take risks and learn from mistakes. We believe in continuous iterations and getting things done.
Hold a PhD in Plasma Physics, Nuclear Engineering, or a related field, with a focus on magnetic confinement fusion-preferably on a toroidal confinement device.
Have demonstrated expertise in one or more of the following areas: core transport, plasma heating, MHD, edge physics, or scenario development.
Possess strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make informed decisions in a fast-paced environment.
Have excellent communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
INTERVIEW PROCESS
Recruiter Interview (30-60 min)
Technical Screening (30 min)
Technical Panel (3x60 min)
*This role sits at L3 of our framework, please inquire during the recruitment process for further information.
At Proxima Fusion, our mission is bold: making limitless clean energy a reality. To get there, we need a high-performing, diverse team that brings different perspectives, challenges assumptions, and builds together with purpose. We know that diversity of thought and experience leads to better ideas, stronger execution, and a more resilient team. We don’t look at how you identify, what you look like, who you choose to worship or what ethnicity you are. We care about what you can bring to the table.