Physics Intern - Spring/Summer 2027

About Thea Energy:  Thea Energy is leveraging recent breakthroughs in stellarator physics and engineering to create a faster and simpler approach to commercializing fusion energy. The company is reinventing the stellarator using computer-controlled arrays of planar coils thereby replacing the intricate, complex modular magnets required in all other stellarator architectures. Thea Energy is on a mission to create a limitless source of zero emission energy for a sustainable future.  The Thea Energy physics team performs cutting-edge research in the areas of stellarator optimization, toroidal plasma confinement, plasma divertor and edge physics, plasma-materials interactions, and fusion neutronics. Thea Energy is looking for motivated interns to work with Thea physicists on projects relevant to these topic areas.  Take ownership of a dedicated research project within one of our core physics areas, guided by a senior physicist mentor. Conduct literature reviews to guide initial project specifications. Run simulations or analyze data to inform Thea Energy's stellarator design.   Collaborate directly with cross-functional teams of mechanical and electrical engineers. Support engineering design reviews by translating physics modeling and simulation results into specifications.   Utilize project management tools to track tasks and long-term research goals. Present your findings and project outcomes to the broader technical team at the conclusion of the internship. Ideal Experience & Skillsets: Candidates may be pursuing undergraduate, masters, or PhD degrees. Ideal candidates would have experience in at least one of the following physics areas: • Plasma magnetohydrodynamic modeling • Plasma gyrokinetic modeling • Stellarator equilibrium and coil optimization • Plasma control • Energetic particle modeling • Plasma fluid modeling • Neutral particle Monte Carlo simulation • Plasma diagnostics • Plasma-material interaction • Neutron transport Monte Carlo simulation Additionally, experience in the following technical areas are a plus: • Scientific computing • High-performance computing systems • Nonlinear constrained optimization • Machine learning • Data science • Git version control • Python programming language Company Benefits: Compensation: $18-25/hr Undergraduate and $26-30/hr Post-graduate Requirements: • Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 lbs. • Ability to perform activities such as typing, standing, or sitting for extended periods of time. • Ability to work in a facility that contains industrial hazards including heat, cold, noise, fumes, strong magnets, high voltage, high current, pressure systems, and cryogenics.