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Avalanche Energy is a Seattle-based startup developing compact fusion machines for clean, energy-dense power generation. The company is building modular fusion systems designed to provide power across diverse applications, from austere environments to deep sea vehicles, maritime transport, and lunar power systems.
In this role, you will lead the development and implementation of multi-physics computational models of plasma processes within Avalanche's fusion device. Your work will directly inform machine design decisions and experimental strategies. Key responsibilities include:
- Lead development of WarpX Particle-in-Cell (PIC) code through collaboration with Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory for modeling Avalanche's fusion machine physics
- Derive and develop reduced plasma models, including bounce-averaged Fokker-Planck equations and dispersion relations
- Predict plasma behavior through simulations and theory to guide device and experiment design decisions
- Work closely with the experimental team on iterative test campaigns to verify and validate computational results
- Publish results in peer-reviewed journals and present at relevant conferences and seminars
- Collaborate on simulation planning to maximize fusion reaction rates
- Contribute to code planning, development, performance optimization, benchmarking, and reliability efforts
- Travel for conferences, meetings, and company offsite events as needed
The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced, hands-on environment with a small, tight-knit team. You should be self-motivated, energized by problem-solving, and comfortable pivoting between priorities while also diving deep into complex technical topics. The company values creative collaboration, continuous learning, and a "design, build, test" mentality.
Requirements:
- PhD in Engineering or Physics with thesis focusing on both computational and theoretical elements related to PIC modeling of plasma processes
- At least 2 years of work experience developing or utilizing PIC code
- Fundamental understanding of basic plasma physics, molecular gas dynamics, transport phenomena, and electromagnetic principles
- Experience with VSIM, WarpX, or other PIC software
- Proficiency with MATLAB or Python for modeling and data analysis
- Proven capability to think critically and learn quickly about unfamiliar concepts
Bonus skills: COMSOL or similar multi-physics modeling software, experimental experience with UHV plasma systems, CAD software, familiarity with fusion experiments or ion traps, wall interaction modeling.
