Laser Architect (f/m/d)

Focused Energy is a fusion energy startup with the goal of generating unlimited clean energy to responsibly meet future global demand. With the use and commercialization of laser-induced inertial fusion, a clean and highly efficient power generation technology is coming within reach, suitable to ensure a secure and scalable future energy supply. We are seeking a Laser Architect to join our dynamic laser development team. The Laser Architect is the system‑level technical lead responsible for the conceptual design, modeling, and experimental validation of laser driver architectures for inertial fusion energy (IFE) at the research and pre‑pilot stage. This role focuses on defining and evolving credible laser driver concepts that can ultimately support fusion energy production, while operating primarily at the R&D and demonstrator level, where performance exploration, risk reduction, and physics‑driven trade studies dominate over industrial optimization. The Laser Architect ensures coherence between laser physics, system architecture, and fusion requirements, guiding the transition from laboratory concepts toward scalable driver solutions. They enable the transition of inertial fusion energy from proof‑of‑principle laser experiments toward credible, scalable driver concepts, shaping the technical foundations on which future pilot plants and commercial systems will be built. What you'll do: Define and refine laser driver concepts suitable for IFE. Explore alternative architectures and assess their feasibility through modeling and experiments. Maintain ownership of the global architectural vision, even as individual subsystems evolve in parallel. Define the laser R&D roadmap, including critical component development/evaluation, integrated beamline demonstrators, and intermediate testbeds Work closely with experimental teams to ensure results feed back into architectural decisions Support design of diagnostics and test protocols aligned with future scaling needs. Who you are: PhD or equivalent experience in laser physics, optical engineering, or related fields Deep expertise in high‑energy and/or high‑average‑power laser systems Strong background in laser system modeling and scaling analysis Demonstrated experience in conceptual design and experimental validation of complex laser systems Ability to operate across physics, optics, and systems‑level reasoning Ability to bridge theoretical modeling and experimental reality Operates as a system thinker with strong physics intuition Comfortable exploring multiple architectural paths in parallel Values quantitative modeling, experimental feedback, and iterative refinement Communicates technical trade‑offs clearly to scientists, engineers, and leadership What we offer: Innovative Technology & Mission: Be part of a cutting-edge company working on groundbreaking research in clean energy and scientific discovery. Career Development: We invest in our people. This is an opportunity to join an early, growing company at the forefront of new technology, where you’ll have the opportunity to develop and grow your career. Collaborative Culture: Work with great people in a dynamic, international environment with top-tier scientists, engineers and professionals passionate about solving global challenges. Ownership: Take ownership from day 1 and drive impact by making decisions, solving challenges and shaping the future of our company. Your Success is our Success: We offer a competitive salary and company ownership in the form of stock options, giving you a direct stake in our success and ownership in what we build together. Vacation Days: We support your work-life-balance by granting you 30 days of vacation per year. Snacks and Drinks: Our office fridges are never empty. Enjoy our healthy snacks and drinks. Our Darmstadt office even offers a subsidized canteen with delicious lunch options daily. Retirement Plan: If you decide for a private pension plan, we will finance 15% on top of your monthly contributions. Equipment: Choose between a state-of-the-art Windows or Apple Laptop. In addition, you will receive a keyboard, mouse and headset so you are fully equipped from day 1. Events: We organize regular events to foster team bonding, encourage collaboration, and build a strong, supportive company culture. Connect with colleagues across departments, share ideas, and have fun together, both in and outside of the workplace. Mobility with NAVIT: We partner with NAVIT to support your flexible commuting needs—whether it’s a public transportation ticket, taxi rides or car-sharing you choose what fits your lifestyle. Fitness with Wellhub: We care about your health. Get access to a wide range of gyms, fitness studios and wellness services across Europe through our partnership with Wellhub. Focused Energy is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender perception or identity, national origin, age, marital status, protected veteran status, or disability status. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Focused Energy will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Compensation offered will be determined by factors such as location, level, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Certain roles may be eligible for incentive compensation, equity, benefits.