Postdoctoral Scholar

IPAC, part of the Physics, Math, and Astronomy Division at Caltech, provides science operations, user support, data and archive services, and scientific vision to maximize discovery with observatories both in space and on the ground. Applications are for invited for one Postdoctoral Scholar position in extragalactic astrophysics to work with the Great Observatories All-sky LIRG Survey (GOALS) team at IPAC. You will work with the GOALS team on the reduction and analysis of spectroscopic and imaging data from the James Webb Space Telescope obtained as part of an ongoing program to survey nearby Luminous and Ultraluminous Infrared Galaxies. The JWST data consist of MIRI/MRS and NIRSpec IFU spectroscopy, as well as multi-band MIRI and NIRCam imaging of 19 nearby (U)LIRGs. The successful applicant will critically analyze these data along with other multi-wavelength ground and space-based data, using publicly available and custom software designed by the GOALS team, and publish the results in peer-reviewed journals. For more details about the GOALS project, see the GOALS webpage at https://goals.ipac.caltech.edu/.

Position Details

• Lead the analysis of the JWST ULIRG data.
• Compile and analyze ancillary data from, e.g. ALMA, HST, Keck, MUSE.
• Participate in virtual and in-person team meetings.
• Publish papers using JWST and other data, conduct independent research, write and submit proposals for JWST and other platforms.

Skills and Qualifications

• By the starting date, a Ph.D. in astronomy, physics or equivalent, in an area relevant to the job details.
• Ability to work in an active team environment, including good written and verbal communication.
• Experience in the study of active and merging galaxies.
• Reduction and analysis of infrared spectroscopic data from JWST is particularly relevant.

Required Documents

• Full resume
• Cover letter
• Publication list
• A summary of previous and current research (limited to 3 pages)
• The names of three professional references (to be submitted by the closing date)

Appointment Details

• Three-year appointment, contingent upon funding.
• Application should be addressed to Dr. Lee Armus and sent to [email protected] by Feb 2, 2024.
• Preferred start is date is Aug 1, 2024.

Hiring Range

Starting at $69,000 per annum

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].