New

Staff Scientist

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement
United States, California, Pasadena
Sep 04, 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 entails modeling of the atmosphere of Uranus, using Hubble Space Telescope (HST) images as input into radiative transfer models. The ultimate objective is to calculate an improved estimate of the Bond albedo of Uranus, with well characterized statistical assessments of the uncertainties of the estimate(s). Essential Job Duties Gather key data from the HST archive and calibrate/process the images such that the quantitative analysis of the atmosphere may proceed. Utilize existing optical/ultraviolet radiative transfer codes to produce artificial Uranian atmospheres whose properties can be compared to HST image data. From these first two duties, constrain the properties of the atmosphere such that the Bond albedo may be estimated, with quantitative estimates of the uncertainties. Write up the results of these studies for the larger HST-funded science team and prepare texts and figures for scientific talks and peer-reviewed publications. Other duties as assigned. Basic Qualifications PhD in Planetary Science or Astronomy, with familiarity with Hubble Space Telescope image data. Working knowledge of the radiative transfer modeling of planetary atmospheres, both in broad wavelength coverage imaging and spectroscopy of the atmosphere(s). Expertise with methods of Bayesian inference as relevant to the assigned atmospheric modeling. Expertise with computational implementations of atmospheric radiative transfer, on Linux-based workstations and large High Performance Computing Clusters. Preferred Qualifications Experience in Machine Learning analysis of complex image data sets. Experience with spaceborne and ground-based astronomical imaging data sets and approaches. Required Documents Resume Cover Letter Hiring Range $59,800 to $85,900 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.