Inertia Fusion Intern Program – Summer 2026
Location: Livermore, CA or HYBRID
Duration: 10–12 weeks
Teams: Design Physics, Experimental Physics, Target Manufacturing, Mechanical Engineering, Controls & Software, Laser Science, Scientific Computing
About the Program
Inertia is building a laser-driven inertial fusion energy system based on the proven results of the National Ignition Facility in the same Laser Indirect Drive (LID) configuration. Our internship program gives students the opportunity to contribute directly to real R&D efforts across physics, engineering, materials, and computational tools. Interns will be matched to projects based on background and interest.
Potential Project Areas & Work Scopes
Contribute to the development of inertial fusion target design concepts through modeling of hohlraums and novel beam geometries. This may include building or refining VISRAD and/or radiation hydrodynamic models.
Develop software to help the design, experimental, and target fabrication teams. Interns may build machine learning, optimization, uncertainty quantification, visualization, or data analysis pipelines, with opportunities to support high-volume data processing and laboratory integration.
Help design, prototype, and test mechanical components for injectors, experimental fixtures, alignment tools, and other precision hardware. Tasks may involve CAD design, hands-on assembly, machining support, and participating in subsystem testing for performance, robustness, and reliability.
Help develop fabrication equipment and processes, automated metrology and assembly methods, and cost models for the mass production of inertial fusion energy targets.
Help build and run physics simulations to model the conditions, material response, and chemistry in our fusion chamber.
Analyze the commercial, regulatory, supply chain, and safety paths to an indirect drive laser fusion power plant.
What We Look For
• Students pursuing BS/MS/PhD in Physics, Engineering, Materials, CS, Applied Math, or related fields.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Experience in labs, coding, modeling, or hardware—depending on track.
• Interest in fusion, lasers, materials, or scientific research.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
Nice to Have
• Python, MATLAB, or C++ experience.
• Background in optics, plasma physics, materials, CAD, or scientific computing.
• Experience with diagnostics, fabrication, ML, or automation.
Benefits:
The base hourly range for this role is $40.00 - $50.00 per hour; The pay range provided is an estimated base range for this role. Exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience, and education.
About Inertia
Inertia is taking the most direct, scientifically-proven path to commercializing fusion, leveraging the only successful achievement of fusion ignition, using a process that was pioneered at the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). With groundbreaking innovation, transformative technology, and multi-year investment, Inertia is committed to commercializing fusion energy in the next decade.
Top Skills
What We Do
Inertia is taking the most direct, scientifically-proven path to commercializing fusion, leveraging the only successful achievement of fusion ignition, using a process that was pioneered at the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). With groundbreaking innovation, transformative technology, and multi-year investment, Inertia is committed to commercializing fusion energy in the next decade.
