Plasma Research Engineer - Space Research Technology

Inautalent in Martigny, CH, seeks a Senior Plasma Research Engineer to lead the setup and operation of a cold plasma laboratory. The role involves designing experiments, generating and manipulating non-thermal plasma, and translating theoretical concepts into measurable results.

This role is responsible for establishing and managing a dedicated cold plasma laboratory, focusing on the design, construction, and execution of experiments to generate and control non-thermal plasma. The position bridges theoretical physics with practical experimentation, aiming to turn scientific concepts into observable phenomena.

Responsibilities

• Design, equip, and commission a full cold plasma lab, including high-voltage power supplies, laser systems, gas handling, vacuum/glass containment, diagnostic tools, and safety systems.
• Develop and refine methods for producing stable cold plasma using high-voltage pulsing, laser triggering, and custom gas mixtures.
• Conduct advanced experiments manipulating cold plasma—such as spinning or structuring it with rotating electromagnetic fields—and measure key plasma parameters.
• Create and implement resonant circuits and analog electronic drivers to efficiently excite and control plasma discharges.
• Analyze experimental data, identify physical mechanisms, refine setups, and propose future experiments in collaboration with physics and engineering teams.
• Ensure all lab activities comply with safety protocols and regulatory standards for high-voltage and plasma systems.
• Document procedures, results, and findings to support internal knowledge sharing and potential IP development.

Requirements

• Master’s or Ph.D. in Plasma Physics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• 7+ years of hands-on experience in generating and characterizing cold/non-thermal plasma.
• Practical knowledge of high-voltage pulsating power systems and analog electronics for plasma excitation.
• Understanding of resonant circuits and impedance matching for plasma discharges.
• Proven ability to independently design, build, troubleshoot, and operate complex physics experiments.
• Strong safety awareness when working with high voltages, vacuum systems, lasers, and reactive gases.

Nice to have

• Experience generating cold plasma using high-voltage or laser techniques.
• Background in custom gas mixture preparation, controlled gas handling, and glass/quartz discharge vessels.
• Familiarity with rotating magnetic/electromagnetic field generation for plasma manipulation.
• Experience establishing or managing a plasma physics lab from scratch.
• Proficiency in plasma diagnostics such as Langmuir probes, optical emission spectroscopy, electrical probes, and high-speed imaging.
• Data analysis skills using Python, MATLAB, or similar tools.

What the company offers

• High flexibility and autonomy in organizing daily work.
• Opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking physics and technology at the forefront of energy research.
• Clear pathways for professional growth and leadership in an innovative R&D environment.

About the company

Inautalent is pioneering research in gravity-control propulsion and quantum-vacuum energy, aiming for clean, sustainable energy solutions. The organization operates at the intersection of relativity and quantum mechanics, collaborating internationally to push the boundaries of fundamental physics and develop transformative technologies.

• Focus on cutting-edge research in gravity and quantum-vacuum energy.
• Collaborative environment with international academic partnerships.
• Mission-driven work to turn bold scientific ideas into real-world technologies.
• Commitment to advancing fundamental physics and sustainable energy.