California Institute of Technology, Physics, Mathematics & Astronomy Division
(posted 2026/01/15, listed until 2026/07/15)Position Description
Applications are invited for two Postdoctoral Scholar positions at the California Institute of Technology. The successful candidate will work with Professor Ray Jayawardhana and his collaborators on observational studies of exoplanets and/or sub-stellar objects. Candidates with expertise and interests in ground-based high-resolution exoplanet spectroscopy and/or imaging and spectroscopy of exoplanets, brown dwarfs, and young star clusters with the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) are particularly encouraged to apply. Group members lead a Large and Long Program at the Gemini Observatory targeting ultra-hot Jupiters. Prof. Jayawardhana is also a member of the JWST/NIRISS science team. In addition, with Drs. Aleks Scholz and Koraljka Muzic, he is involved in JWST GO programs targeting sub-stellar objects. Group members also use data from Keck, Subaru, VLT, and other major observatories. The position is for two years, with extensions possible for up to two additional years. The salary range is $76,000-$80,000. The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, experience, qualifications, skills, education, specialty, training, and internal equity. Funds for research expenses will be provided. Start date is flexible, with a preference for summer or fall 2026. Applicants should submit their curriculum vitae, a description of research interests and plans and a list of publications, and should arrange for three letters of recommendation. Applications are accepted until the positions are filled, and those received before February 15, 2026 will receive full consideration. Early expressions of interest and inquiries are encouraged, and should be made to rayjay@caltech.eduAs 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. Learn more about our benefits and who is eligible.
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.
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Application Materials Required:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Research statement
- Publication list
- Three reference letters (to be submitted online by the reference writers on this site )
Further Info: