Research Scientist; Experimental

The planet urgently needs safe, reliable, zero-carbon energy without waste. Nuclear fusion can address the scale of this problem, but for decades, existing fusion approaches have not proven a net positive energy gain. Zap Energy has rethought the fundamental technology of fusion. As the only company using sheared-flow-stabilized Z-pinch, we present potentially the fastest path to commercially available fusion energy.

As a Research Scientist (Experimental), you’ll be at the heart of our mission—designing, running, and analyzing experiments that push the boundaries of plasma physics and fusion technology. Your work will help us understand complex systems, validate models, and uncover insights that move us closer to sustainable energy.

• Lead or support experimental campaigns on advanced fusion devices
• Design and deploy plasma diagnostics (e.g., Thomson scattering, interferometry, spectroscopy, magnetics, neutronics)
• Analyze experimental and computational data, including error propagation and interpretation
• Collaborate with engineers to integrate systems and optimize experimental setups
• Share findings through publications and presentations

Required

• Masters in plasma physics, fluid dynamics, turbulence, combustion or closely related field
• Strong foundation in plasma physics, applied physics, or related fields
• Hands-on experience with experimental design and data analysis
• Creative problem solver who thrives in fast-paced, collaborative environments
• Clear communicator who enjoys turning complex ideas into actionable insights

Preferred

• PhD in plasma physics, fluid dynamics, turbulence, combustion or closely related field
• Bonus points for expertise in:
• Pulsed power systems
• High-voltage instrumentation
• Computational plasma modeling

Estimated salary range: $,000 annual.

Zap Energy also offers the following:

• Competitive compensation
• Matching retirement contributions
• Flexible vacation and paid company holidays

Zap Energy is building a low-cost, compact and scalable fusion energy platform that confines and compresses plasma without the need for expensive and complex magnetic coils. Zap’s sheared-flow-stabilized Z-pinch technology offers the shortest potential path to commercially viable fusion and requires orders of magnitude less capital than traditional approaches. Zap Energy has over 60 employees in two facilities near Seattle and is backed by leading financial and strategic investors.

Please contact  with any questions.

Candidates may be considered for other positions at Zap Energy and actual salary will be based on relevant education, experience, and other qualifications. Range is published in accordance with Washington Equal Pay and Opportunity Act.

Zap Energy Inc. is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws and regulations.