NBI Scientist (Laser & Photonics)

Madison, WI

Join Realta Fusion and help advance the laser and photonics technology at the heart of next-generation neutral beam injection for commercial fusion energy. The NBI Scientist (Laser & Photonics) will build the laser and optical-cavity expertise needed to support Hammir NBI photoneutralization development, work closely with outside collaborators, and integrate photoneutralization requirements with the broader NBI design. This role will support the development, modeling, testing, and optimization of laser and optical systems for photoneutralization. The position will collaborate across scientific and engineering teams to translate optical requirements into practical system designs and support the integration of photonics technology into Realta’s NBI systems.

Key Responsibilities

1. Primary NBI Science technical interface for photoneutralization collaboration.

2. Define the first experimental architecture, cavity requirements, diagnostics, optical-loss budget and scaling path.

3. Build sufficient laser/cavity knowledge within NBI Science to inform HAMMIR NBI architecture and integration decisions.

4. Create a development path from bench/cavity demonstration to integration with future negative-ion beam systems.

Background and Experience

• PhD or strong equivalent experience in lasers, photonics, atomic physics, accelerator laser systems, precision optics or a related field.
• High-power laser systems and resonant/enhancement optical cavities; cavity locking, stabilization and alignment.
• Laser diagnostics, high-reflectivity optics, thermal stability, vacuum optical systems and laser safety.
• Ability to translate photodetachment and beam requirements into an experimental cavity/laser program with measurable milestones.
• Fusion experience is helpful but not required; deep laser/cavity expertise is more important.

Compensation and Benefits

What we are working on is hard… and hugely important. Realta Fusion is assembling a talented team bound together by a passion to solve humanity's biggest challenge with first-of-a-kind technology. Additionally, Realta offers:

• Competitive compensation package, including equity stock options
• Comprehensive benefits including health, dental, and vision insurance, plus a retirement savings plan
• Flexible paid time off (PTO) to support work-life balance
• Work and live in Madison, Wisconsin — one of America's most livable and vibrant cities

We value diversity as a critical factor in innovation and believe a diverse team is necessary to solve the toughest problems. We aim to create an inclusive environment that unleashes the full creativity of our team members from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences. We provide equal employment opportunities to all individuals based on merit and without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable laws.