CalTech - California Institute of Technology Jobs

CalTech - California Institute of Technology

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Pasadena, California

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"Research Scientist"

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Research Scientist

Research Scientist

2026-02-01

Location

Pasadena, California

Caltech

Type

Fulltime Regular

Required Qualifications

Ph.D. or equivalent in astrophysics, cosmology, or related field
Expertise in large-scale structure, clustering measurements
Higher-order statistics, systematic error mitigation
Cosmological simulations, pipeline development

Research Areas

Cosmology
SPHEREx mission
Spectroscopic galaxy catalog
Large-scale structure
Physics
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Research Scientist

Research Scientist

Caltech

Job Category: Fulltime Regular

Exempt Overtime Eligible: Exempt

Benefits Eligible: Benefit Based

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

Research Scientist Position - SPHEREx Cosmology (Caltech) The Caltech SPHEREx team is seeking a research scientist to contribute to the scientific analysis of data from the SPHEREx mission. The successful candidate will work closely with the SPHEREx Science Team and is expected to become a full member of the team by SPHEREx first major release, participating actively in the mission's core science programs. More information about SPHEREx can be found at https://spherex.caltech.edu.

Essential Job Duties

The primary focus of the position is the development of high-level cosmological analyses necessary to extract scientific results from SPHEREx's spectroscopic galaxy catalog. This includes (as needed) methodological and theoretical development, as well as significant software implementation. Expertise in one or more of the following areas is especially valued: large-scale structure and clustering measurements, higher-order statistics, systematic error mitigation, cosmological simulations, and pipeline development and validation.

The candidate will integrate and work closely with the SPHEREx team so good collaboration skills are important for this job.

Basic Qualifications

  • Ph.D. (or equivalent), or PhD in progress, in astrophysics, cosmology, or a related field.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Strong record of original research in large-scale structure or cosmology.
  • Demonstrated experience in software development for scientific analysis.

Required Documents

  • Resume
  • Cover Letter
  • Reference letters should be sent to Nancy Rappard nrappard@caltech.edu with email title 'SPHEREx Cosmology position'

To be considered for this position please visit our web site and apply on line at the following link: https://hr.caltech.edu/work/job_openings

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

The minimum requirement is a Ph.D. (or equivalent) or PhD in progress in astrophysics, cosmology, or a related field. Preferred candidates have a strong record of original research in large-scale structure or cosmology and demonstrated experience in software development for scientific analysis. See how to write a winning academic CV for tips.

🔬What are the essential duties for this SPHEREx Cosmology role?

Primary focus is developing high-level cosmological analyses from SPHEREx's spectroscopic galaxy catalog, including methodological/theoretical development and software implementation. Valued expertise: large-scale structure, clustering measurements, higher-order statistics, systematic error mitigation, cosmological simulations, and pipeline development. Collaboration with the SPHEREx team is key. Learn more about thriving in research roles.

📝How do I apply for the Caltech Research Scientist position?

Submit a resume and cover letter via Caltech's job portal. Reference letters should be sent directly to Nancy Rappard at nrappard@caltech.edu with subject 'SPHEREx Cosmology position'. Deadline aligns with expiration on February 1, 2026. Check research jobs for similar opportunities.

🚀What is the SPHEREx mission and why join the Caltech team?

SPHEREx is a NASA mission for cosmological data analysis via an all-sky spectroscopic survey. Join as a full team member by first major data release to contribute to core science programs. Visit spherex.caltech.edu for details. Ideal for experts in Physics and cosmology; see attracting top talent in higher ed.

💼Does this position offer benefits or visa sponsorship?

This is a full-time regular, exempt role with benefit-based eligibility at Caltech. No salary or visa sponsorship details provided. Caltech is an equal opportunity employer. Explore faculty jobs or research positions for more options in Physics.

🛠️What skills are most valued for success in this role?

Strong collaboration skills for team integration, plus expertise in software development, pipeline validation, and areas like large-scale structure clustering or cosmological simulations. A proven research record enhances candidacy. Review postdoc success tips.
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