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California Institute of Technology, Physics, Mathematics & Astronomy Division

Fellowship ID:
Caltech-PMA-BURKELFTP [#30373]
Fellowship Title: 
Burke-Leinweber Fellowships in Theoretical Physics and Astrophysics
Fellowship Type:
Postdoctoral
Location:
Pasadena, California 91125, United States of America
Subject Areas: 
Particle Physics
Astrophysics / Theoretical Astrophysics
High Energy Physics
Quantum Information Science
Gravitational Physics (more...)
Compensation:
$85,000
Appl Deadline:
2025/11/15 11:59PMhelp popup (posted 2025/09/01, updated 2025/08/13, listed until 2026/02/13)
Description:
  URMs  

Description

The California Institute of Technology (Caltech) solicits applications for the Prize Fellowship program of the  Walter Burke Institute for Theoretical Physics and the newly founded Leinweber Forum for Theoretical Physics. Fellowships are to begin in the Fall 2026, offering an opportunity for outstanding recent and new Ph.D. recipients to perform research at Caltech for three to four years. They are selected by a faculty committee representing all areas of theoretical physics and astrophysics at Caltech and are provided with: 
  • flexibility, support, and freedom in choosing research directions within theoretical physics and astrophysics (including but not limited to theoretical astrophysics/cosmology, condensed matter theory, general relativity, particle/string theory, mathematical physics, and quantum information), 
  • an inclusive environment with faculty mentorship and activities organized by the Burke Institute and Leinweber Forum to promote scientific exchanges and professional growth.
The Burke and Leinweber Fellowship program significantly expands and strengthens Caltech’s long-standing program of Prize Fellowships in Theoretical Physics and Astrophysics. The Prize Fellowship program has been successful with over 95 percent of the more than 120 former fellows holding distinguished academic positions, as shown at http://burkeinstitute.caltech.edu/people/postdoctoral-fellows.

Applicants should submit curriculum vitae, a statement of research interests (no more than 5 pages, excluding references), and a list of publications (refereed papers on top). Applicants should also ensure that at least three letters of reference are submitted on their behalf.

Applicants interested in being considered for a joint appointment in theoretical astrophysics with Carnegie Observatories must also apply here.

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 to 4 years
  • Salary: $85,000 in the first year
  • Research fund: $10,000 per annum
  • One-time allowance to assist with the move
  • Annual paid time off: 21 days, not including Caltech Holidays
  • Annual sick leave: 15 days
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
Process timeline:
  • September 1, 2025: Applications are accepted
  • November 15, 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
 


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.



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.
 
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 the contact on the job posting.


Application Materials Required:
Submit the following items online at this website to complete your application:
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Research statement
  • Publication list
  • Three reference letters (to be submitted online by the reference writers on this site help popup)
And anything else requested in the description.

Further Info:
http://www.pma.caltech.edu/about/job-opportunities
email address
 
1200 E. California Blvd.
Pasadena, CA 91125