Experimental Physicist

Magdrive is developing the next generation of spacecraft propulsion. Our cutting‑edge thruster technology promises to deliver unmatched thrust and efficiency, enabling accessibility to new orbits and entirely new industries such as satellite servicing, orbital assembly, and interplanetary transport. We are also starting to develop recycling & refuelling approaches for future spacecraft propulsion.

As an Experimental Physicist at Magdrive, you will be investigating the physical processes of thrust generation and propellant refuelling in the Magdrive thruster. You’ll design and run your own experiments in the new DEEP facility at Magdrive and work closely with the rest of the experimental team carrying out other research. In addition you’ll collaborate with colleagues running FEM simulations to iterate designs of thruster components.

This is a hands‑on role, planning and delivering experiments to help push our propulsion technology to higher performance and improve its longevity.

We offer a supportive and flexible work environment, with the ability to adjust work hours, hybrid working, competitive salary, comprehensive health insurance, and regular company socials. Magdrive is based at the Harwell Innovation Campus in Oxfordshire, UK, with occasional remote working possible.

• Working with other members of the Experimental Physics team on experiments to investigate and improve the performance of Magdrive thrusters.
• Testing refuelling of the Magdrive thruster with recycled metallic propellant.
• Collaborate with other teams to interpret requirements and plan and conduct experiments to answer their questions.
• Utilising computational analysis tools to analyse results from experiments.
• Interpreting and reporting results from experiments to the team and company.
• Maintaining a tidy, well‑organised laboratory environment and ensuring safe working practices are followed.

• PhD in Plasma Physics or Electric Propulsion or similar OR Degree in Physics or Engineering and 4 years’ experience applying experimental physics in industry.
• An enquiring problem‑solving mindset with an appetite for practical experimental work.
• Experience planning, conducting and analysing results of experiments.
• Experience of using simulation to support experimental research.
• Practical working knowledge of electronics to support experimental design.
• Experience with vacuum systems & optical diagnostics.
• Experience with Python for computational data analysis and/or hardware control.
• Knowledge of existing electric propulsion technologies.
• Experience with pulsed power or high voltage.
• Experience with simulation tools for electromagnetics (e.g. FEM with e.g. COMSOL) or circuits (e.g. CASTLE or LTSpice).

• 25 days annual leave + bank holidays, plus long‑service awards (up to 30 days)
• Flexible working hours
• Remote working where possible
• Financial support for home office setup

Mid‑Senior level

Full‑time

Research, Analyst, and Information Technology

Defense & Space

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