Lead Experimental 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! This is a full-time, onsite role based at our headquarters in Denver, CO.

As the Lead Experimental Physicist, you will be responsible for independently driving complex laser-based experiments from definition through execution and analysis. This role requires strong experimental physics judgment, deep interest in the underlying science, and the ability to quickly learn and master sophisticated systems. You will design experiments, develop/upgrade diagnostics, analyze and interpret data, and continuously identify opportunities to improve experimental performance. You will work closely with scientists, engineers, technicians, shot directors, and leadership, serving as the technical driver for assigned experimental programs. We are looking for our scientists and engineers to apply their technical expertise, problem solving skills, and dedication to quality to positively impact the future of energy!

Act as the primary experimental owner for assigned laser experiments

Rapidly learn and develop deep understanding of complex experimental platforms, including lasers, diagnostics, and supporting subsystems

Design and execute experiments involving lasers, spectroscopy, imaging, and time resolved measurements

Develop and apply appropriate diagnostics to understand system performance and debug experimental issues

Translate high level scientific objectives into detailed experimental designs and test plans

Review experimental results critically, identify limitations, and drive systematic improvements

Perform quantitative post processing and analysis of spectroscopy and imaging data

Modify, extend, and maintain data processing and analysis scripts

Produce clear technical reports, presentations, and publishable quality results

Interface with the scientific board and senior scientists to understand experimental priorities and required outcomes

Collaborate closely with technicians and engineers, providing technical direction, mentoring, and training

Troubleshoot nontrivial experimental, diagnostic, and system level issues

Work effectively across disciplines, including experimentalists, theorists, engineers, and technicians

Education: PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a closely related field, or equivalent experience

Strong hands-on experience with laser-based experiments

Solid understanding of optical and laser diagnostics

Demonstrated ability to independently drive complex experimental work

Experience debugging complex experimental systems and diagnosing root causes

Willingness to learn pulsed power concepts

Proficiency in data analysis and post processing

Strong written and verbal communication skills

High level of motivation, curiosity, and ownership mindset

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 of granted asylum

Familiarity with excimer lasers

Experience in laser gain dynamics

Experience with laser wavefront measurement

Experience with deformable mirrors

Experience with phase plates

Experience with gas kinetics

Experience with vacuum systems.

Experience operating and aligning pulsed laser systems

Experience producing scientific publications

Experience working in multidisciplinary research laser facilities, such as national labs

Experience with Matlab, Python, and LabVIEW.

Prior experience mentoring technicians or junior team members

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