Post-Baccalaureate Researcher

Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community.

Job Summary

IPAC, part of the Physics, Math, and Astronomy Division at Caltech, provides science operations, user support, data and archive services, and scientific vision to maximize discovery with observatories both in space and on the ground.

With NASA support, IPAC is responding to the Astro2020 Decadal Review recommendation of a Time-Domain and Multi-Messenger Astronomy program (TDAMM). TDAMM is the study of the behavior of astrophysical objects as a function of time, be it variable brightness, transient emission, or movement on the sky. We are hiring for a full-time post-baccalaureate research position working on the analysis of existing visible-to-infrared data sets such as the Zwicky Transient Facility (ZTF) or WISE/NEOWISE, and the planning for anticipated time-domain data sets.

Essential Job Duties

Caltech and IPAC are heavily engaged in a variety of time-domain programs, including ZTF and NEOWISE. You will be encouraged to study those data sets in order to broaden your science analysis skills, and to extrapolate their findings for relevance to future missions. The position duration is a two-year term appointment. Work will take place in-person, in Pasadena, California.

Basic Qualifications

• BA or BS in Physics and/or Astronomy, and a strong interest in Astronomy or Astrophysics as a career.
• Scientific analysis skills, including but not limited to, statistical analysis, preparation, and presentation of data.

Required Documents

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Contact information for two referees who can speak to your performance and/or potential in the research setting.

Application Details

Applications will be accepted via the Caltech website only. Review of applications will begin immediately. The nominal position starting timeframe is June/July. 

People choose to work at IPAC for many reasons, and the casual, employee-centric culture often leads to fulfilling, long-term careers and positive relationships. Caltech’s benefits program offers a quality, competitive benefits package that is affordable for you and the Institute. We also offer a 403(b) defined contribution plan to eligible staff as well as a Voluntary Retirement Savings (TDA) Plan. IPAC staff have access to the Institute’s facilities, including the athletic center, libraries, on-site daycare, professional development and enrichment classes, and Athenaeum club membership.

Hiring Range

$18.00 - $26.00 Per Hour

The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training.

As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our benefits and staff perks. 

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

To read more Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) go to eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf.

Disability Accommodations

If you would like to request an accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to Caltech Recruiting at [email protected].