Theoretical Electrodynamics Scientist

The scientific responsibility

Make the momentum bookkeeping explicit. Derive predictions for realistic illumination, scattering and supports before an apparent residual is assigned new physics.

Technical depth we are looking for

Maxwell stress tensors; electromagnetic momentum; boundary conditions; scattering theory; conservation laws; analytical limiting cases.

We expect research-level command of the relevant physics and methods, plus the ability to explain assumptions to adjacent specialists. A doctorate or equivalent demonstrated achievement is appropriate; the evidence of your work matters more than a particular institution.

Evidence to bring

A derivation tied to measurable observables, with assumptions, unit checks, numerical verification and a known limiting case.

Provide public or authorized links and distinguish your individual contribution from the team’s work. Include a failure, correction or negative result that improved your judgment. Do not send confidential material.

Your first design assignment

Write the full-system momentum balance for the proposed optical geometry, including supports, escaping radiation and external couplings.

This is a proposed priority after appointment, not an unpaid application assignment. The exact scope follows funding, access to appropriate facilities and an agreed work plan.

The failure mode you must be able to expose

Treating internal forces as net external thrust or omitting a momentum flux because it is experimentally inconvenient.

A concrete first deliverable

A reviewed model with sign conventions, observable predictions and an explicit system boundary.

Acceptance should be based on inspectable records, stated limitations and independent technical review. A positive propulsion result is not a prerequisite for useful scientific work.

A question for our technical conversation

Where does the balancing momentum go in the complete experiment?

Appointment and compensation

This is a proposed capability profile within the model & materials program. Selected full-time founding appointments are proposed at USD $1M starting annual base salary with a USD $10M+ milestone bonus opportunity, subject to secured funding and signed terms. Location, benefits, start date and exact scope remain to be agreed. Read the complete compensation framework.