Staff Scientist

Job Summary

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. The Division of Geological and Planetary Science is seeking to hire a Staff Scientist with a background in (sub)millimeter interferometric observations and experience in radiative transfer modeling of planetary atmospheres.

Responsibilities

• Complete data reduction, analysis, and modeling tasks independently.
• Lead publications.
• Submit yearly ALMA proposals targeting outer solar system objects.
• Perform the corresponding data reduction and analysis tasks.
• Be involved in broader work with the de Kleer group in the analysis of additional millimeter-wave observations and relevant data from other facilities targeting the Saturn system.
• Lead research projects investigating the chemical composition of objects in the Saturnian system (in particular, Titan, Saturn, and Enceladus).

Basic Qualifications

• PhD in astronomy, planetary science, or a related discipline.
• Track record of first-author publications focused on (sub)millimeter observations of Solar System objects.
• Proficiency in radiative transfer modeling and analysis.
• Expertise in modeling spatially resolved spectral line and continuum observations of gas giant planets and their natural satellites.
• Familiarity with line-by-line radiative transfer modeling of planetary atmospheres and diffuse emission (e.g., plumes).

Preferred Qualifications

• At least 5 years of experience leading self-motivated scientific research post-PhD.
• Extensive experience in ALMA data reduction and analysis.
• Experience in thermal modeling of satellite continuum emission.
• Demonstrated ability to submit successful observing proposals.
• Proficiency in Python, IDL, CASA, and Fortran.

Required Documents

• Resume

Pay

The hiring range is $59,800 to $90,480 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.

Benefits

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.