Plasma Researcher

Plasma Researcher for Electric Propulsion

Role Summary

This is an exciting opportunity to join a rapidly growing space startup company and play a key role in the development of air-breathing electric propulsion technology.

We are seeking for enthusiastic, creative and hard-working plasma and electric propulsion researchers to join our team in the development of our flagship satellite to ultra-low Earth Orbit (ULEO).

Applicants should be able to experimentally and theoretically investigate the behaviour and dependencies of RF discharge plasma for various plasma devices, such as thrusters and cathodes, as major subsystems of the air-breathing propulsion system from the ground up.

Fundamental Requirements

• Excellent understanding of the fundamentals (theory and practice) of low-pressure plasma physics and vacuum technology.
• An advanced university degree MEng, MSc, or preferably a PhD in aerospace/plasma science or a relevant field.
• Applicants will be assessed in line with relevant work experience.
• Be capable of designing, assembly, testing and optimising thruster and cathode, with little supervision and assistance.
• Experience using electronics lab equipment and plasma diagnostic (Faraday probe, Langmuir probe, etc.)
• Excellent communication, leadership and team-working skills.
• Enthusiasm to be involved in groundbreaking space science.

Additional requirements

• Experience in research and development projects (PhD research is considered).
• Experience in researching RF plasma, (ICP, CCP, Helicon and magnetised plasma).
• Experience in planning and implementation complex multi-parametric optimization tests.
• Basic experience in CAD modelling and drawings (SolidWorks, CATIA, NX).

About NewOrbit Space

NewOrbit is developing the first air-breathing electric propulsion (ABEP) system to be trialled in ULEO. Operating in ULEO comes with game-changing benefits to most satellite applications; however, it hasn’t been exploited yet, since a propulsion system to counteract drag from air particles present at these altitudes is required. Practically, for years-long missions, this can only be achieved using these air particles already present in space as the propellent for the propulsion system.

We are aiming to perform the first proof-of-concept mission next year.

Why NewOrbit

Pioneering Space Technology: Join NewOrbit and contribute to launching groundbreaking technology into space next year. Your work on our air-breathing propulsion system will redefine satellite operations in ultra-low Earth orbits.

Unmatched ownership and impact: You'll experience a level of input that's rare in this industry. You’ll participate in the full lifecycle of satellite technology development and face diverse challenges in preparing our propulsion system for space.

Join an exceptional team: Work with some of the brightest scientists and engineers in the space technology sector.

Great culture: You’ll be part of an exiting, collaborative work culture with engineering at heart.

Equity and competitive salary: NewOrbit offers competitive salaries and company ownership stakes. Dedication and hard work are rewarded with a stake in the business you are helping to build.