Head of Experimental Physics

Lead the experiments that will define the future of fusion energy. The Head of Experimental Physics will lead Realta Fusions experimental program to advance the physics basis for high-field axisymmetric mirror fusion. This role is responsible for setting the strategic direction execution and growth of the companys experimental physics efforts while remaining technically engaged in key research initiatives.

This leader will oversee experimental campaigns on the Wisconsin HTS Axisymmetric Mirror (WHAM) at the University of Wisconsin-Madison guide the development of advanced plasma diagnostics and drive the experimental roadmap for Realtas next-generation devices Anvil and Hammir. The role requires close integration with theory modeling and engineering teams to ensure alignment between experimental results and device design.

The Head of Experimental Physics will build and lead a high-performing team establish strong external collaborations with national laboratories and academic institutions and represent Realtas experimental program through publications conferences and partnerships.

Realta Fusion is a rapidly growing start-up developing compact magneticmirror fusion energy systems to address the biggest challenge of our time tackling global climate change while ensuring a sufficient energy supply for atleast ten billion people on (and off) earth. We are building a team withdiverse talents dedicated to making fusion energy arealsolutionto humanitys most pressing problem.

Responsibilities

• Define and execute Realtas experimental physics strategy aligned with the fusion roadmap.
• Set priorities for experimental campaigns diagnostics development and validation efforts across WHAM Anvil and Hammir.
• Build mentor and lead a high-performing experimental physics team.
• Lead the design execution and analysis of experimental campaigns on WHAM and future devices.
• Oversee the development and deployment of advanced plasma diagnostics and ensure high-quality data collection and analysis.
• Collaborate closely with theory modeling and engineering teams to integrate experimental insights into simulation and device design.
• Partner with business leadership to align technical milestones with company objectives.
• Establish and manage collaborations with national laboratories universities and industry partners.
• Publish research in peer-reviewed journals and present at leading conferences; serve as a spokesperson for Realtas experimental program.
• Lead or support grant proposals partnerships and funding opportunities to expand experimental capabilities.
• Establish and enforce safety standards ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and promoting a culture of safety and accountability.
• Foster an inclusive collaborative and mission-driven team environment that supports professional growth and innovation.

Required Qualifications

• PhD in Plasma Physics or a related field.
• 8 years of experience in experimental plasma physics including leadership of research programs or teams.
• Deep experience with plasma diagnostics (e.g. bolometers electrostatic analyzers interferometers magnetic probes spectrometers neutron diagnostics x-ray detectors Thomson scattering etc.).
• Proven track record designing building and deploying diagnostics on fusion or plasma experiments including high-vacuum systems (10⁹10⁸ torr).
• Strong understanding of plasma heating and current drive techniques (e.g. ECH NBI RF heating bias-induced rotation).
• Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and large-scale experimental programs.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills across technical and non-technical audiences.
• Strong publication record and/or demonstrated intellectual property contributions in plasma or fusion research.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in both academic and startup or national lab environments.
• Track record of securing research funding or leading successful grant proposals.
• Experience scaling experimental programs or building new research capabilities.

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.