Pulsed Power Physicist

Xcimer Energy leverages decades of research on Inertial Fusion Energy (IFE) combined with groundbreaking new laser architecture. Our mission is to deploy fusion power plants to meet global decarbonization goals as fast as possible. Xcimer has assembled a team of leaders in tough tech, fusion science, and manufacturing with a track record of rapid execution. Supported by leading investors, Xcimer is uniquely positioned to deliver limitless, clean, fusion power to combat climate change. Join us in powering a better world with inertial fusion!

 

As a Pulsed Power Physicist, you will work on the science and engineering of electron-beam cathode systems for Xcimer's pulsed power driven inertial fusion energy program. The core goal is maximizing beam efficiency and energy deposition on target. You will lead cathode development across multiple emitter technologies , design and optimize hibachi foil/anode structures for beam transport, and build complex experimental systems from concept through commissioning. This role carries significant independent scientific responsibility. We want someone who is strong in both theory and experiment and rigorous about documentation.

Optimize beam efficiency and energy deposition on target

Lead design, fabrication, and testing of cathode systems across multiple emitter technologies (explosive emission, thermionic, photocathodes)

Design and optimize hibachi foil/anode grid structures for beam transport efficiency

Lead experimental campaigns end-to-end

Develop and validate cathode and beam transport models (analytical, PIC, SPICE) to guide design decisions; roughly equal balance of modeling and experimental work

Operate and maintain UHV vacuum systems (target < 10^-9 Torr) including bakeout, leak checking, and pumping systems

Survey prior art on emitter technologies, beam transport, and cathode physics

Own experimental program documentation: test reports, design records, operating procedures, and data management

Manage hardware procurement, BOM tracking, and vendor relationships for cathode subsystems

Interface with potential commercial emitter suppliers on procurement, packaging, and quality

Support integration of cathode systems into larger diode and laser architectures

Education: PhD in physics, electrical engineering, or closely related field (MS with exceptional relevant experience considered)

Deep expertise in beam diagnostics (Faraday cups, beam imaging, energy analysis, calorimetry)

Hands-on experience with vacuum electronics and electron-beam generation

Able to independently design experiments, interpret results, and write up findings clearly

Experience building and commissioning complex experimental systems end-to-end (mechanical, electrical, vacuum, controls)

Familiarity with high-voltage pulsed power systems (100 kV+)

Proficiency with lab instrumentation (SMUs, oscilloscopes, HV power supplies)

Comfortable working across mechanical, electrical, and physics domains in a small team

Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.

Direct experience with explosive emission, or cold cathode technologies

Familiarity with semiconductor fabrication processes    

Experience with PIC or beam optics simulation codes (e.g., Chicago, CST, COMSOL)

Background in beam transport optimization

Track record of thorough technical documentation and hardware program management (procurement, scheduling, vendor coordination)

Background in excimer laser or inertial fusion energy systems