In a nutshell:
Italo Godoy-Morison joined Kyoto Fusioneering (KF) and began working at the Kyoto Research Centre (KRC) in October 2024, following a 10-month internship at Kyoto Fusioneering’s UK branch (KFUK). He is focused on the research and development of our blanket technologies, as well as UNITY-1. With his passion for fusion energy and his global experiences, he is actively contributing to moving fusion engineering technology forward.
When did you first become interested in fusion?
My fascination with fusion dates back to when I was 17. I was inspired by Iron Man —specifically the arc reactor – which I learned from my physics teacher was based on the concept of fusion. This sparked my curiosity and led me to research more about fusion energy. I discovered that it perfectly aligned with my two main interests since childhood: engineering and physics. As a child, I was always curious about the nature of mechanisms around me—sometimes to the detriment of my own safety. This innate curiosity is something I have brought to KF, albeit now in a more disciplined and refined manner.
I decided to pursue both passions at the University of Auckland, earning a conjoint degree in mechanical engineering and physics. Even though my major was not directly related to fusion, both disciplines formed the necessary foundation. However, I’ll always remember my hunger to deepen my knowledge in fusion, often in the form of textbooks with notations and nomenclature abstract to my young mind.
During my studies, I needed to complete engineering related internships to graduate. I chose Buckley Systems Ltd. in New Zealand, an innovative and ambitious company specializing in high-precision electromagnets for particle accelerators (such as CERN), for its unique marriage of engineering, physics and relation to nuclear technologies.
At Buckley, I worked with massive electromagnets weighing several tons and gained valuable experience in designing and cooling these systems with exceptionally fine tolerances. However, while I enjoyed working on technologies tangential to fusion, my desire to study fusion itself grew stronger.
At the time, New Zealand didn’t have any academic institutions dedicated to fusion research. I realized that to truly dive into this field, I would need to leave my home country and travel halfway around the world. This realization led me to the UK, where I completed a master’s degree in fusion science and physics at the University of York.
How did it feel to leave your home?
Leaving home for an extended period was certainly daunting. I felt nervous about being far from family and friends but was somewhat accustomed due to my mother’s Brazilian heritage. In the end, I knew I would regret passing up the opportunity to study fusion—a field I deeply love for its potential to solve global energy challenges. So, I took the leap.
Settling in the UK, I quickly realized how complex and multifaceted the fusion world is. I was amazed by the intricacies of the field, from plasma physics to the numerous subsystems that interact within a fusion device. It was overwhelming at first, but I found joy in tackling the endless challenges and discovering solutions. This process cemented my passion for fusion.
During my master’s program, I gained a solid foundation in plasma physics thanks to my professors, many of whom had dedicated their careers to the subject. As much as I valued theoretical knowledge, I wanted to apply my skills more practically, which led me to pursue engineering-focused roles after graduation. This is why I started to seek opportunities to work at a company.
How did you find Kyoto Fusioneering KF?
As I was finishing my master’s thesis, I began applying for jobs that fueled my enthusiasm. While researching opportunities, I came across Richard Pearson, the Co-founder, Chief Innovator, and UK Director of KF, on LinkedIn.
When I found KFUK, through Richard’s post, instead of purely following the traditional application process via KF’s website, I also reached out to him directly, because I was really seeking an opportunity to work in the fusion domain.
Thankfully, this unconventional approach worked, and I was invited to an interview with Richard and Luigi Candido, who were my managers. By late November 2023, I had joined KFUK as an intern.
The interviews had a welcoming and engaging atmosphere. Richard and Luigi asked me thoughtful questions whilst sharing their vision and unique culture at KF, being that KFs business strategy was to mature the supply chain by specializing in the integration and delivery of advanced subsystems of a fusion reactor, effectively bridging the gap between component manufacturers and end users. This deeply resonated with me and solidified my desire to become part of KFUK.
What was your role at KFUK?
I primarily worked on the Self-Cooled Yuryo* Lithium-Lead Advanced (SCYLLA©) blanket design and configuration, focusing on optimizing energy conversion efficiency. The blanket, a critical component of fusion devices, being in direct contact with plasma and radiation aims to operate at temperatures up to 1000°C to maximize energy output. Through multiple simulations, I explored which aspects could be optimized immediately and which would require further development.
*Note: Yuryo means “good quality” in Japanese.
Designing a system as novel as a fusion blanket is a unique challenge. With so many unknown and non-standardized components in fusion technology, it’s a constant balance between thinking outside the box and avoiding reinventing the wheel. Every idea goes through rigorous evaluation—some are discarded, while others spark new insights. The process often feels like one step forward, two steps back, but it’s deeply rewarding to identify and solve problems along the way.
Furthermore, collaboration has been essential and rewarding. Working alongside experienced professionals like Richard, Luigi, and others in the fusion industry has been invaluable. Their expertise has shaped my understanding and helped me refine my approach to problem-solving.
What brought you to work in Japan after your internship in the UK?
As my internship was ending, Colin Baus, Vice President of Plant Tech, invited me to become a permanent employee—but based at KFJP!
Initially, I hesitated, knowing it meant crossing half the world again. But then I realized I had already made a similar decision when I moved from New Zealand to the UK. Plus, I could continue working in the fusion field, taste the renowned Japanese ingenuity, but be closer to my home country, so it was the right decision.
After moving to Japan to work at our own R&D facility, the Kyoto Research Centre, I faced some challenges, such as navigating administrative tasks like finding a home, opening a bank account, and adapting to a new culture. However, thanks to my colleagues’ guidance, I settled in without any major struggles.
Shortly after my move, KF organized Culture Day, an all-employee workshop to reflect on the company’s values and mission. This event allowed me to interact with members based in Japan I hadn’t worked with closely before, helping me to integrate smoothly. I really appreciate KF for organizing such an initiative.
How has your role changed since joining KFJP?
My role involves continuing R&D on the SCYLLA© blanket, which I began at KFUK, but now I also contribute to the UNITY-1 project at the Kyoto Research Centre. Working on-site where UNITY-1 is being constructed has been a thrilling experience, as I can collaborate closely with the Thermal Cycle Team and directly contribute to the development of its blanket module for heat extraction.
The time difference between Japan, the UK and indeed our other international branches, benefits more so from a series workflow rather than in parallel. In fact, it’s almost like passing the baton—we work on tasks during our respective time zones, ensuring continuous progress. This approach maximizes productivity and allows us to tackle challenges efficiently.
For instance, when I was in the UK, I helped prepare for the 33rd Symposium on Fusion Technology (SOFT), an international fusion conference held in Ireland, with my team members based in Japan, where we presented our progress on the SCYLLA© blanket. It’s exciting to share our work with the global fusion community.
What’s your goal at KF?
I aspire to deepen my knowledge and strengthen my skills to contribute meaningfully to ongoing projects like UNITY-1 and the SCYLLA© blanket, as well as KF’s future endeavors. Collaborating with experts across KF provides endless opportunities to learn and grow.
Fusion is my passion, and I’m committed to working together to overcome the challenges it presents. Done so, by staying focused, collaborating with my talented colleagues and standing on the shoulders of giants, I’m confident we’ll make significant strides in this ambitious and cause worthy field.
