Experimental Scientist

Focused Energy is a fusion energy startup with the goal of generating unlimited clean energy to responsibly meet future global demand. The founders include two highly renowned scientists and a long-time entrepreneur and founder of several successful startups. With the use and commercialization of laser-induced inertial fusion, a clean and highly efficient power generation technology is coming within reach, suitable to ensure a secure and scalable future energy supply.

We are seeking a skilled and driven Experimental Scientist to join our team and help us shape the future of energy.  In this role, you will be a key member of the NorCal laser facility, currently under construction, where you will design and execute advanced hands-on experimental campaigns focused on the interaction of high-power laser pulses with matter. Your responsibilities will include developing and optimizing cutting-edge optical and X-ray plasma diagnostics, as well as overseeing their calibration and integration into our experimental setups. Your work will play a crucial role in refining the design and efficiency of our fusion systems, directly shaping our path toward commercially viable fusion energy.

• Lead experimental campaigns: Oversee the full lifecycle of experimental projects, from the design phase to setup assembly and data acquisition, ensuring successful execution.

• Analyze and interpret data: Develop custom data analysis tools to process and extract insights from experimental results.

• Develop advanced diagnostics: Collaborate with the Engineering Team to design, integrate, calibrate, and optimize cutting-edge optical and X-ray diagnostics. 

• Collaborate across teams: Work closely with scientists and engineers from various disciplines to drive projects forward.

• Communicate findings: Regularly present results and progress to stakeholder internally and externally to the company.

• Shape future facilities: Contribute to the design and development of experimental systems and road maps for future facilities outlined in the company’s long-term roadmap.

• Technical expertise: PhD in plasma physics with 3+ years of hands-on experience in high-power laser-plasma experiments. 

• Diagnostic expertise: significant experience in developing and/or utilizing plasma diagnostics based on optical (e.g., backscattered light measurement, SOP, VISAR, etc.) and/or X-ray (e.g., spectrographs, imagers, …) emissions.  

• Programming and data analysis: proficiency in Python or other high-level programming languages for data processing, analysis, and visualization. 

• Analytical Thinking: Strong ability to understand, interpret, and synthesize complex ideas and data to drive experimental insights and innovations.

• Self-motivated and adaptable: Highly driven, autonomous, and adaptable to evolving project needs in a fast-paced start-up environment.

• Collaborative and interdisciplinary: proven experience in international, multidisciplinary teams, effectively communicating across scientific and engineering teams.   

Focused Energy is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender perception or identity, national origin, age, marital status, protected veteran status, or disability status.

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Focused Energy will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Compensation offered will be determined by factors such as location, level, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Certain roles may be eligible for incentive compensation, equity, benefits.