General Atomics (GA) currently has an exciting opportunity for a scientist to join the diagnostic development program within GA’s Energy division in San Diego, CA. The successful candidate will lead and support the development of unique diagnostic systems for the next-generation fusion facilities and related applications. Advanced tokamaks and new fusion devices are being built around the world. Diagnostics and sensing techniques are paramount to the development and controlled operation of such facilities as well as to the scientific study of fusion plasmas. This position under general direction with limited reviews will apply innovative approaches to design and implement novel sensing and measurement techniques.

Duties and responsibilities:

• Conceptualize, design, implement and demonstrate sensing and measurement techniques in laboratory and physical environments such as in fusion facilities.
• Propose and develop novel sensing approaches, based on the state-of-the art in RF, microwave and THz technologies.
• Analyze, verify and improve the principles of innovative diagnostics concepts. This may involve the computational modeling of physical phenomena and interactions with fusion and plasma expert groups.
• Perform system engineering activities on RF, microwave and THz wave generation, transmission and sensing components, including design, integration, testing and troubleshooting of these systems.
• Develop test plans and manage the integration, verification and validation of RF diagnostics in accordance with those plans.
• Document all designs, analyses, test results and conclusions. Communicate results to staff and community via technical presentations and publications.
• Work with scientists, engineers, and technicians to develop requirements for diagnostic systems. Provide direction to engineering and technical staff.
• Provide support for proposals.
• Provide direction to engineering, design and technical staff.
• Perform other duties as assigned or required.

Job qualifications:

• Typically, a Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree or PhD in a scientific or related technical field and progressively complex scientific experience as follows; six or more years of experience with a related Bachelor’s degree, four or more years of experience with a related Master’s degree, and two or more years of experience with a PhD. Equivalent scientific experience may be substituted in lieu of education.
• Ph.D. in science or engineering with relevant work experience involving RF, millimeter-wave, sub-millimeter-wave, or THz radiations.
• Strong understanding of microwave transmission and sensing principles and an expert knowledge of the associated technologies.
• Demonstrated experience in the design, integration and utilization of RF, microwave and THz sources, transmission lines, sensors and data acquisition systems.
• Strong familiarity with signal processing and experimental data analysis.
• Experience with data analysis and programming languages (Python, Matlab) and RF simulation software (CST, HFSS, QuickWave, COMSOL).
• Innovative and goal-driven mindset, as demonstrated by a record of patents and/or publications in professional scientific journals or formal technical equivalents.
• Facility in moving rapidly from one task area to another throughout a dynamic R&D environment. Ability to understand new concepts quickly and apply them accurately.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Must have strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills to effectively interface with other departments, government representatives and professionals. Capable of representing the organization as a prime technical contact

Desirable job qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience developing, testing and applying microwave technologies or integrated microwave systems for experimental physics or remote sensing.
• Familiarity with electromagnetic wave propagation theories in plasmas and experience performing modeling and simulations of such phenomena.
• Experience leading R&D projects in advanced technological areas. Ability to lead a team of less experienced professional employees through specific tasks.
• Experience applying and securing federal funding in support of research and technology development.

Applications may be submitted online through the General Atomics careers website:
https://www.ga-careers.com/job/san-diego/scientist-rf-diagnostics/499/10849699504