Alpha Plasma Microwave Modeler

About the role

Proxima Fusion is seeking an Alpha Plasma Microwave Modeler to lead the physics simulation pipeline that links gyrotron sources to plasma performance in the Alpha stellarator. You will model millimeter‑wave propagation, polarization and absorption to guide heating system design and support the development of Europe’s first commercial stellarator power plant.

Key responsibilities

• Run ray‑tracing and beam‑tracing simulations of electron cyclotron (EC) wave propagation and absorption using tools such as TRAVIS, RAYTRAX and advanced full‑wave codes.
• Develop an integrated modeling framework that couples wave deposition to transport codes for temperature and density profile optimisation.
• Build and maintain Python‑based post‑processing pipelines to automate scenario scans and link simulation outputs to the Alpha integrated design framework.
• Model Electron Cyclotron Current Drive (ECCD) and evaluate its impact on rotational transform and equilibrium in the quasi‑isodynamic configuration.
• Collaborate with the ECRH design lead, electromagnetic engineers and academic partners, and contribute to design reviews, interface control documents and technical reports.

Required profile

• Strong background in plasma physics, RF engineering or related scientific disciplines.
• Experience conducting ray‑tracing and beam‑tracing simulations for EC wave heating scenarios.
• Ability to work collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams and translate simulation insights into hardware decisions.

Required skills

• Python programming
• TRAVIS simulation code
• RAYTRAX simulation code
• Ray‑tracing and beam‑tracing simulation techniques
• Electron Cyclotron Current Drive (ECCD) modelling