Scientist in Physics Operations

Job Posting Organization:
The ITER Organization (IO) is a pioneering international project aimed at demonstrating the feasibility of nuclear fusion as a large-scale and carbon-free source of energy. Established to advance the development of fusion energy, the organization operates in a multi-cultural environment and encourages diversity among its workforce. The ITER project is a collaboration of 35 nations, including the European Union, the United States, China, India, Japan, South Korea, and Russia, and is located in southern France. The organization is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace that values diverse perspectives and backgrounds, which are seen as essential to solving complex scientific and engineering challenges. The ITER Organization emphasizes the importance of collaboration, accountability, respect, and excellence in its operations, and it actively promotes applications from under-represented nations and women candidates. With a focus on creating a sustainable energy future, the ITER Organization is dedicated to providing a fair and equitable environment for all employees, including in terms of compensation and benefits.

Job Overview:
The position of Scientist in Physics Operations at the ITER Organization offers an exciting opportunity to be at the forefront of an ambitious fusion energy project. The successful candidate will participate in a multi-year training program designed to develop expertise in tokamak operations, contributing to the scientific exploitation of ITER. Responsibilities include assisting in the definition of experimental plans, contributing to the development of operational strategies for disruption avoidance and mitigation, and supporting the preparation for ITER plasma operations. The role is crucial for the execution of the ITER Research Plan, which aims to advance the understanding and control of plasma behavior in fusion reactors. The Scientist will work closely with a diverse team to design and implement the Plasma Control System (PCS) and develop pulse design simulators, ensuring the safety and efficiency of plasma operations. This position requires a commitment to continuous learning and collaboration within a multi-disciplinary environment, as well as the ability to adapt to the dynamic needs of the project.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The primary responsibilities of the Scientist in Physics Operations include developing expertise in the Physics Operation of the ITER machine through in-house training and hands-on experience in tokamak experiments. The candidate will contribute to the strategy for disruption avoidance and mitigation, including assessing triggering functions for disruption management systems. Additional responsibilities involve preparing and implementing disruption load validation programs, participating in the development of optimization plans, and defining tools for programming ITER plasma pulses. The Scientist will also support team activities related to the ITER Research Plan, collaborate with external stakeholders, and supervise staff and interns involved in physics operations. The position requires flexibility, as it may involve shift work and on-call duties to ensure continuous operations and high service levels for stakeholders. The role is integral to maintaining the safety and effectiveness of the ITER project, necessitating a proactive approach to problem-solving and collaboration.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree or higher (PhD) in fusion plasma physics or a related field. Essential qualifications include proven experience in experimental fusion science, knowledge of tokamak operation, and familiarity with planning and executing fusion experiments. Practical experience with tokamak plasma disruptions and disruption avoidance/mitigation strategies is also required. Proficiency in programming languages commonly used in fusion plasma simulation applications, such as Fortran, Python, C/C++, and Matlab/Simulink, is essential. Desirable qualifications include knowledge of plasma pulse scenario design and experience with analysis tools for tokamak plasmas, particularly in the context of disruptions. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to work effectively in an international environment and possess strong communication skills to facilitate collaboration across diverse teams.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree or higher (PhD) in fusion plasma physics or a closely related discipline. Candidates with extensive professional experience in similar roles or additional training certificates in relevant domains may also be considered. The ITER Organization values diverse educational pathways and recognizes that practical experience can complement formal education in the field of fusion energy.

Experience:
The position requires proven experience in experimental fusion science, particularly in the context of tokamak operations. Candidates should have a solid understanding of the planning, execution, and analysis of fusion experiments, as well as practical familiarity with tokamak plasma disruptions and strategies for their avoidance and mitigation. Experience in an international research environment is highly desirable, as it fosters collaboration and knowledge exchange among diverse teams working on complex scientific challenges.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is mandatory for this position. Strong communication skills are essential for effective collaboration within the multi-cultural environment of the ITER Organization. While English is the primary language of communication, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly in fostering collaboration with international partners.

Additional Notes:
The initial employment contract for this position is up to five years, with the possibility of extension based on performance and project needs. The job grade for this position begins at P1, with the final grade subject to the decision of the IO Director General. The role may require shift work and on-call availability, including day, evening, and night shifts, as well as weekends and holidays, depending on project requirements. Candidates should possess a valid driving license in France, as commuting may be necessary, and no vehicle will be provided by the ITER Organization. The ITER Organization is committed to equal opportunity and diversity in the workplace, ensuring that all employees are treated with respect and dignity.