New

Research Support Assistant

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement
United States, California, Pasadena
Apr 22, 2026
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 at Caltech has an opening for an occasional Research Support Assistant to work with scientists on studying the nature of massive stellar clumps in galaxies using HST imaging and MaNGA IFU data. Clumps are prevalent in star-forming galaxies in the early universe, yet the physical mechanisms governing their formation, growth, and survival remain uncertain. Building on the power of citizen science from the Galaxy Zoo: Clump Scout, we have now obtained follow-up high-resolution HST imaging for ~100 nearby galaxies from SDSS that also have existing MaNGA IFU coverage. The successful applicant will analyze imaging and IFU data, model galaxy spectral energy distributions to measure clump physical properties (stellar masses, ages, and SFRs), and constrain spatially-resolved emission-line diagnostics with integral-field spectroscopy from the SDSS-IV MaNGA survey. These, when compared to theoretical expectations, will provide quantitative constraints on models of clump formation and evolution. This is a 2 month term position. Essential Job Duties As an IPAC Research Support Assistant, you will work with scientists Vihang Mehta and Zahra Sattari on tasks related to stellar clumps research: Download and process MaNGA IFU data Apply deconvolution techniques to the lower resolution MaNGA and SDSS data using the high-resolution HST imaging Measure clump photometry as well as spectroscopic features such as emission lines, nebular dust Model clump spectral energy distributions Compare with theoretical expectations Perform other related duties as assigned Basic Qualifications High School Diploma Some high school/college-level, courses in physics, astronomy, engineering, or related discipline Working knowledge of Python Knowledge of a computing environment (Mac or PC) Ability to work independently and in a team environment Preferred Qualifications Experience in working with and programming in Python Working knowledge of word processing and data analysis software Experience in working with astronomical data and data formats Required Documents Cover letter Resume Hiring Range $19.50 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 Caltech complies with the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We consider reasonable accommodation measures that may be necessary for eligible applicants and employees to perform the essential functions of a position. If you would like to request an accommodation to complete this application, interview, or otherwise participate in the employee selection process, please contact Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu. Additionally, if you do not meet the basic qualifications of a role but believe you can perform the essential functions of the job with reasonable accommodation, please reach out to Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu.