Research Fellow – Fusion Science for Clean Energy

About the role

The National Institute of Education seeks a Research Fellow for a 12‑month fixed‑term contract to advance fusion‑science research on runaway electron beams. The role focuses on experimental work using the WEST tokamak and a dense plasma focus device, employing high‑rate gamma‑ray spectroscopy to develop diagnostics that mitigate damage risks.

Key responsibilities

• Operate, optimise and maintain the dense plasma focus device for runaway electron and gamma‑ray production.
• Develop and implement Gamma‑Ray Spectroscopy diagnostics on the plasma focus device and support integration with WEST experiments.
• Correlate gamma‑ray emissions with other plasma diagnostics and analyse experimental data.
• Prepare research reports, scientific papers and assist with project administration as directed by the Principal Investigator.

Required profile

• PhD in Physics, Engineering or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated experience with pulsed‑power, vacuum, high‑voltage (≈15 kV) and high‑current (200‑300 kA) systems.
• Proven track record of independent scientific research and publication in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Required skills

• Pulsed‑power system design and operation.
• Plasma, X‑ray and gamma‑ray diagnostics.
• Vacuum system handling.
• High‑voltage and high‑current safety procedures.
• Gamma‑Ray Spectroscopy instrumentation.