He also contributes to system-level plant design and supports engineering talent acquisition.
Asahi Chikaoka
Co-Founder, ZettaJoule KK Engineer
Asahi leads ZettaJoule’s reactor core design, focusing on neutronics analysis and core geometry optimization.
Most notably
Asahi has conducted advanced research in quantum beam applications and theoretical nuclear physics.
Prior to co-founding ZettaJoule, he co-founded a tech startup focused on advancing innovation in the energy sector.
Professional experience
Asahi has several years of hands-on experience in the design and development of high-temperature gas-cooled reactors (HTGRs), with a focus on thermal fluid analysis using Flownex – advanced software for modeling heat transfer and fluid flow in complex energy systems.
He has specialized experience in nuclear systems that support every stage of ZettaJoule’s HTGR development, from design and modeling to performance evaluation.
Asahi’s proficiency with analytical tools and reactor engineering principles makes him as a key contributor to ZettaJoule’s mission of delivering safe, reliable, sustainable power and heat to customers worldwide.
Education
Asahi earned a master’s degree in physics from The University of Tokyo and a bachelor’s degree in nuclear engineering from Kyoto University.
More about Asahi
Asahi is passionate about physical fitness and enjoys weight training, tennis and hiking.
He finds mental clarity and relaxation in saunas, especially after an intense workout.