Join 1cFE

We are a small, technical team using frontier backcasting to focus on the few levers that move fusion LCOE. You will own hard problems, run open analyses, and ship evidence that moves the field forward.

Open roles

Physicist

Own the theory for 1cFE. Frame the physics questions, build and validate models across promising regimes, and tie every result to LCOE with a TEA systems engineer. Select high-leverage replication targets, evaluate and integrate early AI-for-science tools, use Voltage Park for heavy compute, and publish all code, data, and notes as open science toward the sub-1¢/kWh goal.

Systems Engineer

Lead TEA development for 1cFE. Build, validate, and operate sub-system-to-plant techno-economic models that link physics parameters and operating conditions to LCOE. Run sensitivities that expose cost drivers, partner with physicists and engineers, and evaluate AI-for-engineering tools that increase speed, reduce cost, and unlock new capabilities in pursuit of sub-1¢/kWh fusion.

General Applications

We welcome exceptional general applications even when a specific role isn’t listed. If you are motivated by abundance, open science, and cost-first thinking, we want to hear from you.

How we work

• LCOE is the north star
• Cost realism over elegance
• Risk first, then speed
• Open science: code, data, and notes are public, negative results are valuable
• High agency, low coordination overhead
• In person at Astera’s HQ in Emeryville, CA