Description

The Caltech Division of Physics, Mathematics and Astronomy offers a number of named Experimental Physics and Astrophysics Postdoctoral Prize Fellowships (EXP Fellowships). EXP Fellowships are for a three-year duration and to begin in the fall 2026, or a mutually agreeable date.

The EXP program has been established to offer scientists, typically within a few years after receipt of their PhD, the opportunity to pursue innovative experimental research, including but not limited to Astrophysics, Atomic Molecular and Optical Physics, Biophysics, Condensed Matter Physics, Soft Condensed Matter Physics, Gravitational Physics (via the dedicated Braginsky/Whitcomb Fellowship), High Energy Physics, Low-Energy Particle Physics, Nuclear Physics, Quantum Information, or Cosmology.

It is expected that this research will require the support and facilities of one of the established experimental groups at Caltech (accessible from this list). Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact faculty members to gauge mutual interest.

In the case of astrophysics, only candidates with a focus on instrumentation and/or experimental laboratory work will be considered for EXP fellowships.

Electronic copies of the curriculum vitae, publications list (refereed papers on top), and statement of research interests are required. The research statement should be no more than 5 pages, excluding references. The applicant is requested to ensure that at least three letters of recommendation are submitted on their behalf.

Qualifications and terms of appointment:

• PhD in Physics, Astronomy, or related field (completed or expected by start date)
• Eligibility extends to current postdoctoral scholars
• Appointment term: 3 years
• Salary: $85,000 in the first year
• Research fund: $10,000 per annum
• One-time allowance to assist with the move
• Annual vacations: 21 days (plus Caltech Holidays)
• Annual sick leave: 15 days
• Health, dental, and vision insurance

Process timeline:

• September 1, 2025: Applications are accepted
• November 1, 2025: Deadline for applications, including reference letters
• Mid-December 2025 – End of February 2026: Offers
• View or update your application using the "Status" link after login
  

Benefits

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. Learn more about our benefits and who is eligible.

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 “Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal” Poster | U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

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.

In order to evaluate your candidacy, we may ask you to provide us with certain personal information, including your identification data (e.g. name, date of birth, driver’s license number, social security number, passport number, and contact details), education information, financial information (for payroll and benefits), and professional and employment history. If you have any questions about our privacy policy or would like to learn more, please visit https://www.caltech.edu/privacy-notice.