New

Research Scientist

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement
United States, California, Pasadena
Jul 31, 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 The objective of the position is to expand the range of cosmological and astrophysical science through a combination of space-based missions and ground-based experiments. This staff scientist will contribute to mission design, method development, and analysis for space-based radio frequency surveys, intensity mapping, and astrometric gravitational wave measurement. The scientist will primarily report to Tzu-Ching Chang and will work with collaborators at Caltech, JPL, U Penn and USC. Essential Job Duties Develops a pipeline for constraining the gravitational wave background from space-based astrometric observatories. Analyzes radio and microwave Galaxy maps from the Juno mission for extra-Galactic emission and measurements of the cosmic dipole. Designs the antenna and analysis pipeline for lunar orbit 21-cm cosmic dawn measurement. Develops 1-point cross-correlation statistics for detecting systematics and extra-Galactic structure in intensity maps. Collaborates with researchers at USC in their development of a pipeline for astrometric gravitational wave analysis with data from the Kepler mission. Basic Qualifications Ph.D. (or equivalent) in astrophysics, cosmology, or a related field. At least 5 years of experience in radio frequency astronomy and intensity mapping. Proficiency in python programming and electromagnetic simulation. Experience in reduction of large data sets. Preferred Qualifications Proficiency in parallel computing. Proficiency in foreground mitigation techniques for intensity mapping. Extensive experience in intensity mapping, radio astronomy, or gravitational wave astronomy. Required Documents CV Hiring Range $79.7K - $95K per year 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.