New

Research Scientist

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement
United States, California, Pasadena
Mar 17, 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 This position is to develop software tools to systematically measure and characterize photometric accuracy in SPHEREx data. SPHEREx requires a high-level of photometric reproducibility to carry out its cosmology science, where accuracy on large spatial scales is critically important. The tools will assess gain effects over the instrumental field of view in forced photometry, and overall photometric stability. Essential Job Duties The applicant will operate with the level 1-3 data pipeline developed at IPAC to measure photometric repeatability using measurements of astronomical sources. The developed tools will quantitatively assess errors arising from astrometry, flat-field determinations, PSF uncertainties, and gain drifts. The applicant will also develop algorithms for quantifying best-fit flux and errors with outlier rejection in the all-sky survey data. Basic Qualifications Ph.D. (or equivalent) in astrophysics, cosmology, or a related field. Preferred Qualifications Strong prior experience in large-scale structure or cosmology data analysis. Demonstrated experience in software development for scientific analysis Required Documents CV Hiring Range $79,700 - $115,000 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.