In this episode of the Kronos Fusion Energy Podcast, we are joined by Jack Dongarra, one of the foundational architects of modern high-performance scientific computing and the 2021 winner of the ACM A.M. Turing Award, the highest honor in computer science.

Jack Dongarra is internationally recognized for his pioneering contributions to numerical linear algebra and high-performance computing, including the development of software libraries such as LINPACK and LAPACK, which form the mathematical backbone of much of today’s scientific computing ecosystem and tools like MATLAB. His career spans decades at the intersection of mathematics, computer science, and large-scale scientific simulation, with leadership roles across U.S. national laboratories and the Department of Energy computing programs.

In this conversation with Priyanca Ford, Founder & CEO of Kronos Fusion Energy, Jack reflects on his personal journey—from early academic challenges to shaping the foundations of modern scientific computing—and explains how computation has evolved from supporting infrastructure into a true scientific instrument. The discussion explores why most supercomputers fail to reach their theoretical performance, the importance of co-design across algorithms, hardware, and applications, and how AI complements—but does not replace—physics-based numerical methods.

As a Scientific Advisor to Kronos Fusion Energy, Jack also discusses what it takes to build trustworthy, predictive simulations for safety-critical systems, including verification, validation, uncertainty quantification, and the role of digital twins in fusion energy development.

This episode covers:

• High-performance computing and numerical algorithms
• AI and physics-based simulation
• Supercomputer architecture and energy costs
• Co-design and future computing systems
• Fusion energy digital twins and scientific validation

This is both a masterclass in scientific computing and a deeply human conversation about curiosity, resilience, and the people behind the code.

In this episode, Dr. Konstantin Batygin, a distinguished planetary scientist and professor at Caltech, delves into the latest advancements in fusion energy, the potential of the upcoming Vera Rubin Observatory in discovering Planet X, and the transformative role of artificial intelligence and quantum computing in scientific research. He also shares insights into his ongoing research on Jupiter's formation and his musical endeavors with The Seventh Season, a Los Angeles-based rock band. This episode offers a unique blend of cutting-edge science and personal passion, providing listeners with an engaging and informative experience.

https://www.konstantinbatygin.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/konstantin-batygin-38639415/

https://theseventhseason.band/

In today's episode, we delve into several captivating topics:

• Planet X and Telescope Developments: Konstantin discusses the upcoming Vera Rubin Observatory, set to become operational by 2025, and its potential role in discovering Planet X.
• Differences Between JWST and Vera Rubin Observatory: We explore the distinctions between the James Webb Space Telescope, optimized for close observations and spectrum analysis, and the Vera Rubin Observatory, designed for wide-field searches.
• Fusion and Material Science Links: Konstantin explains how particle accelerators are utilized in fusion and material science, particularly in isotope production, and touches on advancements like Accelerator Driven Systems (ADS) and accelerator-driven fusion for material innovations.
• Muon Catalyzed Fusion: We delve into the concept of muons as heavy particles that could theoretically drive fusion reactions, discussing their limitations due to short lifespans and decay tendencies.
• Cold Fusion and Superconductors: The potential for future cold fusion generators is examined, including the need for advancements in superconductors and material science.
• AI’s Role in Fusion and Multi-dimensional Calculations: Konstantin highlights AI's potential to handle complex simulations and optimize fusion reactor stability, especially with quantum computing's capability to manage multi-dimensional calculations.
• Quantum Computing: We discuss the journey from theoretical quantum mechanics to practical quantum computing and how its unique data handling through qubits could enhance complex simulations in fusion.
• Historical Perspective on Scientific Progress: Konstantin provides insights into historical breakthroughs, such as the delay between early quantum theories and quantum computing, and examples of significant inventions like Fourier Transforms.
• Research on Jupiter's Formation: We explore Konstantin's ongoing research into Jupiter’s primordial state, using the orbital dynamics of its moons to infer conditions billions of years ago.
• Excitement for the Future of Fusion and Astronomy: The episode concludes with a discussion on the potential impact of next-generation telescopes and fusion technology in the near future.

Join us as we explore these fascinating subjects and more.

In this episode, we feature Sushma Bhatia, a Board Advisor at Kronos Fusion Energy with a wealth of experience in environment and legislative affairs. With a career spanning over two decades, Sushma's expertise bridges the worlds of public service, consulting, startups, and leading technology firms. She currently serves as the Director of GTM Sales Tools at Google, where she leads a team of product managers and engineers to develop state-of-the-art sales and partnership tools.

Sushma's profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sushmabhatia/

Beyond her role at Google, Sushma is a board member for the State of California's Board of Environmental Safety, appointed by Governor Gavin Newsom, where she provides strategic guidance on key environmental safety issues. Her background includes serving as the global head of strategy and operations for payments and next billion users at Google, as well as holding senior roles at Accenture, where she was a business strategy executive and chief of staff for the office of the CMT Chief Technology Officer.

Today, Sushma plays an essential role at Kronos Fusion Energy, guiding the company’s strategic direction in environmental and legislative affairs. Her expertise is vital in navigating the complex landscape of sustainable energy policy and advocating for a greener, more sustainable future.

Join us as we explore Sushma’s journey, from her early days in technology and public service to her insights on sustainability and fusion energy. We’ll discuss her contributions to environmental safety and her vision for a cleaner future. If you’re passionate about technology, sustainability, and the path towards a fusion-powered world, this episode is for you.

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