First Light Fusion are designing the world’s largest pulsed power machine, Machine 4. This will be a circa 100MJ, multi-megavolt, short pulse machine capable of driving currents in excess of 45 MA in our loads. The primary purpose of this machine will be to electro-magnetically launch high-velocity projectiles, in order to test FLF’s novel ‘projectile fusion’ concept.
The core pulsed power group are responsible for all hardware external to the vacuum chamber; Marx banks, capacitor charging, switching, transmission lines, diagnostics and ancillary equipment. Supported by the wider pulsed power team and a world-class simulation and experimental capability, the post holder will drive forward First Lights’ capabilities and understanding of pulsed power and engineering.
In this role you will work with the Head of Department and other Group Leasers to oversee the pulsed power design and development at FLF, managing a group of scientists and engineers. You will develop the people, tools and practices to enable the experimental programme on M4 and our other world-class pulsed power drivers.
Responsibilities will include:
- Helping to provide strategic vision for pulsed power design, development and realisation at the company
- Line management of a team of scientists and engineers
- Using schematic capture, circuit simulation and other modelling and simulation tools
- Providing expert engineering/scientific input to multidisciplinary teams
- Producing analysis and calculations for design work
- Provision of support and training to the wider FLF technical team.
Essential
- Degree in Physics, Engineering or similar
- Knowledge of electromagnetic/multi-physics simulation tools
- Ability to perform calculations and analysis associated with physics and electrical engineering
- Knowledge of health and safety matters relating to pulsed power systems
- Passion for fusion and for taking a bold approach to a high-risk transformational technology
- Fast and effective problem-solving skills
- Ability to work under pressure to tight deadlines
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Desirable
- Experience solving complex engineering problems in a scientific environment
- Demonstrated ability to deliver to agreed objectives and manage resources using project management techniques