Bristol, UK · Hybrid
Astral Systems is an innovative startup at the forefront of Nuclear Fusion and Neutron Source technology. Our mission is to create groundbreaking solutions that revolutionise industries and improve everyday life, particularly in medical, space, and nuclear fusion applications. We are dedicated to addressing global health and energy challenges by providing cutting-edge systems that enhance access to medical isotopes and accelerate fusion research.
Astral Systems is hiring a Plasma Physicist to develop predictive plasma and electromagnetic models relevant to IEC operation and IEC-LCF concepts. The role emphasises scientific software development, extension of open-source modelling capability where practical, and production of outputs that couple to neutronics, thermal, and materials workflows.
This position is open at Team Member and Senior level. At all levels, code development is a core work product and will be treated as production engineering, including testing, documentation, and maintainability.
Develop and extend plasma and EM modelling approaches suitable for IEC operating regimes, including models for particle dynamics and field configuration effects.
Build interfaces that export model outputs for other teams, including heat and particle deposition descriptors and time-dependent quantities for design iteration.
Support high-voltage behaviour studies where modelling can inform risk reduction and operating envelopes.
Develop and maintain scientific software, including implementation of missing physics, performance improvements, and model assurance practices.
Create automated analysis and reporting pipelines to support experiment planning, calibration, and iteration against diagnostics data.
Collaborate with engineering and experimental teams to define modelling priorities and translate results into design decisions.
Liaise with external collaborators or academic partners where beneficial to accelerate model maturity and validation.
Support preparation of technical reports and documentation suitable for internal design reviews and external stakeholders.
MSc or PhD in Plasma Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, Computational Science, or a related field (PhD preferred).
Demonstrated experience in plasma modelling and numerical methods for particle and field problems.
Proficiency in one or more of: Python, Julia, C++, Fortran.
MATLAB proficiency is desirable for prototyping, data reduction, or model calibration workflows.
Experience with kinetic, particle-based, or multiphysics EM toolchains, and the ability to extend or integrate modelling codes.
Experience with Linux development workflows, version control, and software engineering practices (testing, documentation, reproducibility).
Clear communication and ability to deliver results to mixed audiences across physics and engineering.
Willingness to undergo employment screening and security checks where required for facility access.
Competitive salary and benefits package
Opportunities for professional development and career progression
Flexible working arrangements and a supportive team culture
The chance to contribute to pioneering advancements in fusion and medical technology
Pension Matching
Private Health Insurance
This is a hybrid role, with onsite as required by test and facility work in Bristol and partner facilities. Some travel may be required for experiment support and collaborations.
Successful candidates would be reporting to the Director of Research/Chief Technical Officer.
To apply, please submit a CV/resume detailing your qualifications and experiences.
Thank you for considering a career at Astral Systems. We look forward to receiving your application!
Astral Systems Ltd
Computational Plasma Physicist
Full-time
Bristol, UK · Hybrid
Negotiable
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