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Job Summary
The Division of Geological and Planetary Sciences is seeking to hire a Research Scientist with a specialization in mid-infrared spectroscopy for solar system science.
Essential Job Duties
The successful candidate will:
- Lead a research program focused on developing a database of lab spectra of analog materials for asteroids and other small body populations, across the axes of composition, grain size, and porosity as simulated with KBr mixtures.
- Collaborate with the de Kleer group on the application of lab spectra and compositional models to mid-infrared spectra of asteroids, primarily those obtained with the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST).
- Have expertise in lab sample preparation, measurement, and analysis utilizing FTIR spectroscopy.
- Conduct the lab aspects of the project independently and guide students on making measurements as needed.
- Analyze and interpret telescope data from the MIRI instrument on JWST.
- Work with the de Kleer group to submit annual proposals to JWST (and potentially other telescopes) within the general area of spectroscopy of small rocky objects.
Basic Qualifications
- PhD in physics, astrophysics, planetary science, or a related discipline.
- Demonstrated leadership (e.g., through first-author publications) in mid-infrared lab spectroscopy to support Solar System observations, with a particular emphasis on asteroids and other small body populations.
- Proficiency with FTIR measurements of lab samples of minerals and meteorites.
Preferred Qualifications
- Demonstrated experience working with mid-infrared telescope spectra of solar system objects.
Required Documents
- Curriculum Vitae, including list of publications.
- One-page Cover Letter.
- Contact information for two references.
Hiring Range
$71,000 to $105,500 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
If you would like to request an accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu.
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California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement
Apr 22, 2025