Computational Spectroscopist

Working arrangements

Please note this role offers hybrid working. Our model sets out a minimum 60% onsite / 40% home working split

Part time working or job share options will be reviewed on an individual basis.

Overview

As part of a $52 million upgrade programme for our ST40 spherical tokamak, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the UK Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, we are developing and delivering new diagnostic systems and a suite of upgrades to enhance diagnostic capabilities. Diagnostic measurements are crucial for understanding the plasma, making data analysis, data structures, and physical interpretation critical to achieving our ambitious scientific mission on ST40.

Spectroscopy is an important diagnostic technique used on ST40 to measure temperature, rotation, and density of impurities in the plasma. Measurements and interpretation of these values are crucial to maximise temperature for optimum fusion conditions and to understand various physics processes such as transport and turbulence. Spectroscopy also monitors elements (impurities) present in the plasma, providing information on the interactions between the plasma and surrounding surfaces.

The successful candidate will work on data analysis of diagnostic instruments installed on ST40, with a particular focus on spectroscopy systems. This includes data analysis processes, running models of diagnostic systems, and contributing to the development of models and interpretation of results. This role sits within the Diagnostic, Data & Control (DDC) department, with the priority being plasma diagnostics support. However, there is potential to collaborate on projects with other teams at Tokamak Energy.

Responsibilities

• Management and enhancement of experimental database via post-pulse analysis chain, this includes refactoring and modernising codes, improving code reliability
• Oversee and perform validation and interpretation of complex data in collaboration with the rest of the spectroscopy team, ensuring robust output and its alignment with organisation’s goal and milestones,
• Participate in ST40 experimental campaigns and be able to develop and report on plasma conditions e.g.
• Ion temperature measurements,
• Impurity measurements,
• Calibration analysis.
• Forward modelling with INDICA, such as providing insights into geometries and related parameters

Requirements

• Masters/PhD level education in related field e.g. physics/Engineering,
• Scientific programming (e.g. some of: Python, MATLAB, Fortran, C or C++), including data analysis experience.
• Proven expertise in spectroscopy systems, or a closely related field, with a deep understanding of the underlying principles, technologies, and challenges.
• Outstanding problem solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to effectively work with multi-disciplinary teams.
• Excellent planning, organisational and communication skills.
• Safety is our highest priority; we are seeking an individual who puts safety as their highest priority, for yourself and for colleagues. 

Desirable skills

• Some experience in designing, installing, commissioning, and operating spectroscopy diagnostics within a tokamak environment or a related field.
• Some experience of being responsible for a lab area/hardware system, including the production of risk assessments and method statements.
• Mentoring junior staffs and promoting knowledge transfer
• Experience with optical ray tracing software (e.g. Zemax).
• An understanding of tokamaks and plasma physics.  

Benefits & Culture

• Salary dependent on skills and experience and will be discussed from the outset
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
• Discretionary 3-day festive break depending on business needs
• Eligible for discretionary performance related bonus
• Share options scheme
• Pension scheme
• Financial benefits – including; group life insurance, critical illness, health cash plan and discount scheme 
• Innovation and Merit bonuses
• Investment in training and development to support career progression
• Opportunity to work on and contribute to world class innovation

Company background

 What if there was a limitless, safe, clean, low-cost energy source, providing much needed global energy security? What if that energy source could also help address climate change? The answer is fusion energy – the power of the stars. Tokamak Energy is a leading global commercial fusion energy company based near Oxford with have an unrivalled track record designing and operating spherical tokamaks; the optimal route to commercial fusion.

In addition to fusion, Tokamak Energy is recognised as a world leader in transformative High Temperature Superconducting (HTS) magnet technology. Our dedicated HTS magnet team, in collaboration with key manufacturing partners, is focussed on enabling new levels of performance and becoming the leading supplier of HTS magnets to multiple markets, including renewable energy, medicine, science and propulsion in water, land, air and space.

 The company, founded in 2009 as a spin-off from UK Atomic Energy Authority, currently employs a growing team of over 260 people with experts from the UK and around the world. It combines world leading scientific, engineering, industrial and commercial capabilities. The company has more than 75 families of patent applications and has raised $335 million, comprising $275m from private investors and $60m from the UK and U.S. governments. Our U.S. subsidiary, Tokamak Energy Inc, was established in 2019.

 Come and be a part of a dynamic and innovative team striving to provide a solution to one of humanity’s greatest challenges: clean and sustainable fusion energy for all.

Important information for candidates

Pre-employment screening

Please note that the appointment of the successful candidate will be subject to standard pre-employment screening, as applicable to the post. This will include right-to-work, proof of identity and references.

Data privacy

Please note that any personal data submitted to Tokamak Energy as part of the job application process will be processed in accordance with the GDPR and related UK data protection legislation, for more information regarding GDPR please see:  https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guide-to-the-general-data-protection-regulation

Equality of opportunity

Entry into employment with the Tokamak Energy and progression within employment will be determined only by personal merit and the application of criteria which are related to the duties of each post and the relevant salary structure. In all cases, ability to perform the job will be the primary consideration. No applicant or member of staff shall be discriminated against because of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

We’re committed to building an inclusive and accessible recruitment experience.

If you have a disability or require any reasonable adjustments to support you through the application or interview process, please let us know. We’re happy to make the necessary arrangements to ensure you can perform at your best.