Staff Scientist

Job Summary

IPAC, part of the Physics, Math, and Astronomy Division at Caltech, provides science operations, user support, data and archive services, and scientific vision to enhance discovery with observatories both in space and on the ground. IPAC invites applications to the science staff from highly qualified individuals for a full-time position at the junior scientist level to work with the Roman team at IPAC.

The Roman Space Telescope is a NASA observatory designed to address key questions in the areas of dark energy, exoplanets and infrared astrophysics. It is slated for launch in late 2026. The Roman Science Support Center (SSC) at IPAC is a part of the Roman Ground Data System, providing algorithm and software development and data processing for the Galactic Bulge Time Domain Survey, the High Latitude Wide Area Survey and the High Latitude Time Domain Survey. In addition, the SSC will support the operations of the Coronagraph Instrument, manage the Roman general and guest investigator proposal solicitations, and provide community support for exoplanet and wide-field spectroscopy science with Roman.

For more details, see: https://roman.ipac.caltech.edu

Essential Job Duties

• Develop and test algorithms for wide-field, near-infrared, slitless spectroscopy and the measurement and classification of galaxy spectra.
• Set and interpret requirements for pipeline modules.
• Work with software developers to write, implement, and test pipeline modules.
• Write pipeline documentation for the user community.
• Participate in meetings (virtual and in-person).
• Conduct independent research.

Basic Qualifications

• PhD degree in astrophysics or a closely related field. Applicants should have at least two years of experience beyond the PhD.
• Experience with infrared and/or optical spectroscopy from space.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Applicants for this position must be United States (US) persons as defined by ITAR regulations - A US person is a citizen of the United States, a lawful permanent resident alien of the US (“Green Card” holder), or individuals granted refugee and Asylee status under US law.

Preferred Qualifications

Beyond these basic qualifications, there are a set of skills and experiences which will add to your ability to contribute to the roles and responsibilities of an IPAC Scientist. Any of the following might give you a head start here, but even if these do not describe you or your experience, we would still like to hear from you!

• Experience with the calibration and reduction of spectroscopic data from space observatories; reduction and analysis of emission line galaxy spectra, including spectral feature identification and measurement.
• Demonstrated ability to work in an active team environment.

IPAC staff have access to the Institute’s benefits programs and facilities, including the athletic center, libraries, on-site daycare, professional development and enrichment classes, and Athenaeum club membership.

Required Documents

• Full resume
• Cover letter
• List of three professional references.
• Applications accepted via the Caltech Site only.

Application will be accepted until January 19, 2024. Preferred start is date is April 1, 2024 or earlier. Depending on start date, an initial short-term remote working arrangement may be considered.

Hiring Range

$66,600 - $103,300 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 [email protected].