Plasma Research Engineer – Space Research Technology

About the role

We are looking for an experienced Plasma Research Engineer to lead the creation and operation of a dedicated cold plasma laboratory for the International Space Federation (ISF). The role is highly hands‑on, combining experimental plasma physics with engineering design to develop innovative low‑temperature plasma technologies.

Key responsibilities

• Design, equip, and commission a complete cold plasma laboratory, including high‑voltage power supplies, laser systems, gas handling infrastructure, vacuum/glass containment, diagnostics, and safety systems.
• Develop and optimise methods for generating stable cold plasma using high‑voltage pulsating signals, laser‑triggered techniques, and custom gas mixtures.
• Conduct advanced experiments on plasma manipulation (e.g., rotating electromagnetic fields) and measure parameters such as temperature, density, electrical characteristics, and optical emissions.
• Design resonant circuits and analog drivers to efficiently excite and control plasma discharges.
• Analyse data, identify physical mechanisms, iterate setups, and propose next‑step experiments in collaboration with physics and engineering teams.
• Ensure strict compliance with safety protocols and regulatory standards for high‑voltage, vacuum, laser, and reactive‑gas systems.
• Document procedures, results, and findings to support knowledge sharing and potential IP development.

Required profile

• Master’s or Ph.D. in Plasma Physics, Physics, Electrical Engineering or a related field.
• 7+ years of hands‑on experimental experience with cold/non‑thermal plasma generation and characterisation.
• Strong practical knowledge of high‑voltage pulsating power systems, resonant circuits, and impedance matching.
• Proven ability to independently design, build, troubleshoot, and operate complex physics experiments.
• High safety awareness when working with high voltages, vacuum systems, lasers, and reactive gases.

Required skills

• High‑voltage power supplies and pulsating discharge technology.
• Laser systems for plasma triggering.
• Gas handling, custom mixtures, and vacuum/glass discharge vessels.
• Plasma diagnostics (Langmuir probes, optical emission spectroscopy, electrical probes, high‑speed imaging).
• Analog electronics, resonant circuit design, and impedance matching.
• Data analysis using Python or MATLAB.

What we offer

• High degree of flexibility and autonomy in organising work.
• Opportunity to contribute to paradigm‑shifting physics and energy research.
• Clear pathways for professional growth and leadership within an innovative R&D environment.