In a nutshell:
Jack Taylor has been providing his expertise to cutting-edge fusion technologies like the SCYLLA© Blanket as a member of Kyoto Fusioneering (KF) since March 2024. After studying aerospace engineering, he made the jump to fusion, joining a UK startup where he developed his engineering skills and learned the language of fusion. Seeking greater challenges and career growth, he joined KF’s UK team, where he now plays a key role in advancing next-generation fusion technology.
What is your role at Kyoto Fusioneering UK (KFUK)?
Since joining KFUK in March 2024, I have been heavily involved in the R&D of the Self-Cooled Yuryo Lithium-Lead Advanced (SCYLLA©) Blanket under the guidance of Luigi Candido. The blanket is an integral component as it absorbs heat used to generate electricity and breeds the tritium fuel needed for fusion reactions. After an organizational shift in January, I transitioned to the Analysis team, but my core mission remains unchanged: advancing thermo-fluid modeling using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) in COMSOL Multiphysics software to optimize the function of the SCYLLA© Blanket. Through this, I analyze fluid behavior, heat transfer, as well as look for ways to make potential design improvements. (Click here to learn more about the SCYLLA© Blanket.)
Beyond thermal analysis, I also conduct Magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) evaluation for the blanket, studying how conductive fluids interact with magnetic fields, a crucial aspect of fusion technology. By analyzing the interaction of the materials, it will be possible to discover how to construct the blanket so that the materials can withstand the extreme conditions inside the reactor. More recently, I have conducted thermal hydraulic analysis for the Thermal Cycling Absorption Process (TCAP) project, another groundbreaking project spearheaded by Kyoto Fusioneering Europe. A vital component of the thermal cycle, this process reduces energy consumption through its heat transfer process. Every day brings new challenges, and that’s exactly what keeps me engaged.
You’re currently working in fusion. When did your interest in fusion begin?
I pursued physics and mathematics in college, and that’s when I encountered an extraordinary teacher, someone whose passion for teaching was infectious. He introduced fusion in one of his classes, and I was captivated. The idea of limitless fuel and zero carbon emissions felt revolutionary. But at the time, fusion took a back seat as at the time I was focused on pursuing aerospace engineering.
It wasn’t until university that I truly found my passion for engineering. Specializing in aerospace, I became fascinated with propulsion systems and landed my first job in the space industry. Yet, despite working in cutting-edge space technology, I felt something was missing—I wasn’t pushing boundaries or discovering anything truly new. So, I started exploring different fields, researching companies that were tackling the world’s biggest technical problems. That’s when I stumbled upon Tokamak Energy.
Initially, I assumed fusion was reserved for those with PhDs in nuclear engineering or plasma physics. But the more I read, the more I realized how thrilling and complex fusion was. I thought to myself, “Why not? This could be the most exciting challenge of my life.” To my surprise, Tokamak Energy was looking for engineers from diverse backgrounds, and in March 2020, I joined their team. That moment marked my entry into the world of fusion.
What were your initial impressions of the fusion industry?
When I received the offer from Tokamak Energy, I was excited. Fusion had always seemed like the holy grail of energy, and suddenly, I was part of it. I couldn’t wait to contribute to something so groundbreaking.
But reality hit hard. From day one, I realized I was stepping into an entirely different universe. Everyone around me spoke a technical language I didn’t understand. I immersed myself in textbooks, research papers, and meetings, but it often felt like I was struggling to keep up.
To make things even more challenging, the COVID-19 lockdown began just two weeks after I started. I was navigating a new industry, a new job, and complete isolation all at once. Fusion engineering demands expertise in extreme environments—dealing with exotic materials under intense neutron bombardment, powerful magnetic fields, and searing temperatures. I had a solid engineering foundation, but fusion required a whole new level of understanding.
At first, I hesitated to ask questions, fearing it would expose my lack of knowledge. But I soon discovered that my colleagues were more than willing to share what they knew. Once I embraced curiosity and actively engaged in discussions, my learning accelerated. That shift in mindset made all the difference.
You built a strong foundation in fusion at Tokamak Energy. What motivated you to join KF?
Simply put, I was ready for the next challenge. I wanted to be more hands-on and have a tangible impact on fusion technology.
I had been following KF for a while. When they sold their first gyrotron system, it made me sit up and take notice.
That piqued my interest. After connecting with a recruiter, I had an interview with Luigi Candido, Andy Wilson. Through our conversations, I sensed something special about KF—they weren’t just working in fusion; they truly believed in it.
I was torn between staying at Tokamak Energy and taking a leap into KF. Then, I deeply reflected on what I would really like to do in this field, and I felt an immediate connection with KF’s vision. It wasn’t just about advancing technology, it was about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. I made up my mind and I accept the offer from KF.
How would you describe the atmosphere at KF after your joining?
KFUK has a truly unique energy. Everyone here is a specialist in their field. When I arrived, I found myself surrounded by experts—Mario Oliver in neutronics, Luke Taylor-King in chemistry, Luigi in breeder blankets, and Italo Godoy-Morison in CAD who is currently in Japan. Despite our different expertise, the culture is built on knowledge-sharing. The conversations we have in the office are fascinating, filled with fresh perspectives and insights.
Our UK office is a dynamic space. At times, it’s buzzing with discussions; at other times, it falls into intense focus. But what I love most is the open and inclusive environment. Colleagues from Japan, the US, and Germany frequently visit, reinforcing the feeling that we are not just a company, but a global team.
Also, I was fortunate enough to visit Japan in November 2024, which further deepened my appreciation for KF’s collaborative spirit.
Finally, what are your goals at KF?
From a career standpoint, I aspire to lead a team. One day, I hope to help establish an engineering department at KF, delivering groundbreaking projects that we can look back on and say, “We did this!”
For KF, my goal is to contribute to the realization of our technologies, particularly SCYLLA© Blanket. SCYLLA© Blanket project is filled with unprecedented challenges—its development requires tackling complex analysis work packages, from system design to auxiliary systems. Every step refines the design iteratively.
Much of what we’re doing has never been done before. We’re working with materials like silicon carbide and lithium-lead, and we lack extensive data on how they behave under fusion conditions. But that’s what excites me the most. With my teammates, I want to embrace these challenges, push the frontiers of engineering, and ultimately drive KF’s mission forward.
