CalTech - California Institute of Technology Jobs

Research Scientist

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CalTech - California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA

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Research Scientist

Staff

June 13, 2026

Location

Pasadena, CA

California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

Type

Full-time Regular, Exempt, On-site

Salary

$97,000 - $136,900 Per Year

Required Qualifications

Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering or related
2+ years medical device development experience
Ultrasound and guided waves expertise
5+ years Matlab or Python
CAD for rapid prototyping
Hardware prototyping and analog electronics

Research Areas

Medical Device Development
Surgical Robotics
Minimally Invasive Navigation
Ultrasound Wave Propagation
AI and Computational Modeling
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Research Scientist

Position Description

Research Scientist

Job Category
Fulltime Regular

ExemptOvertimeEligible
Exempt

Benefits Eligible
Benefit Based

Apply Now

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 Lynn Booth and Kent Kresa Department of Aerospace at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) invites applications for the position of Research Scientist in the Center for Autonomous Systems and Technologies. This is a full-time, on-site position focused on medical device and robotics development. The successful candidate will work at the intersection of hardware, software, and artificial intelligence, contributing to both prototype development and transitioning devices to commercial/demo versions.

Essential Job Duties

  • Developing and refining hardware solutions for navigation in minimally invasive surgical procedures.
  • Designing experimental setups that involve surgical mockups and robotics.
  • Leading data collection efforts, including benchtop experiments.
  • Creating computational and analytical models to match experimental data.
  • Fabricating and testing novel medical sensors technologies.

Basic Qualifications

  • Ph.D. in biomedical engineering, medical engineering, or a related field.
  • At least 2 years of experience in academic or industry settings, with a strong focus on medical device development.
  • Expertise in experimental design and hardware prototyping, including microprocessor-based systems and analog electronics.
  • Strong background in ultrasound and wave propagation with specific familiarity in guided waves.
  • Strong programming skills, including 5+ years of experience in Matlab or Python.
  • Must be proficient in CAD software for rapid prototyping.

Required Documents

  • Resume

Hiring Range

$97,000 - $136,900 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.

Tell them AcademicJobs.com sent you!

Apply Now

Frequently Asked Questions

🎓What qualifications are required for the Research Scientist position at Caltech?

This role requires a Ph.D. in biomedical engineering, medical engineering, or related field, plus at least 2 years of experience in medical device development. Expertise in experimental design, hardware prototyping (microprocessors, analog electronics), ultrasound and guided waves, Matlab or Python (5+ years), and CAD software is essential. Prepare your resume highlighting these skills for research jobs.

🔬What are the essential duties of this Research Scientist role?

Key duties include developing hardware for navigation in minimally invasive surgery, designing experimental setups with surgical mockups and robotics, leading data collection, creating computational models, and fabricating/testing medical sensors. Focus is on prototype to commercial transition at the Center for Autonomous Systems and Technologies.

Explore similar opportunities in research positions.

💰What is the salary and benefits for this Caltech position?

The hiring range is $97,000 - $136,900 per year, based on experience and internal equity. Comprehensive benefits include health/dental/vision insurance, retirement plans, generous PTO (vacation, holidays, sick, parental leave), tuition reimbursement. Learn more about university salaries and perks.

📝How do I apply for the Research Scientist job at Caltech?

Submit your resume via the official application link. No cover letter specified. Position is full-time, on-site in Pasadena, CA, with expiration June 13, 2026. Use our free resume template and cover letter template to stand out.

🌍Does this role offer visa sponsorship or accommodations?

Visa sponsorship is not mentioned. Caltech provides disability accommodations per FEHA/ADA; contact employment@caltech.edu. EEO employer. For research career advice, see postdoctoral success tips.

🤖What research areas does this position focus on?

Intersects hardware, software, and AI for medical devices and robotics in minimally invasive surgery, emphasizing ultrasound, sensors, and prototyping. Ideal for clinical research jobs experts.

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