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California Institute of Technology, Physics, Mathematics & Astronomy Division

Fellowship ID:
Caltech-PMA-BURKELFTP [#32276]
Fellowship Title: 
Burke-Leinweber Fellowships in Theoretical Physics and Astrophysics
Fellowship Type:
Postdoctoral
Location:
Pasadena, California 91125, United States of America
Subject Areas: 
Astrophysics / Theoretical Astrophysics
Particle Physics
Gravitational Physics
High Energy Physics
Astrophysics & Cosmology (more...)
Starting Date:
2027/09/01
Compensation:
$88,000
Appl Deadline:
2026/11/15 23:59:59 (posted 2026/09/01, updated 2026/07/01)
Description:
   

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 2027, 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 https://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: $88,000 in the first year
  • Research fund: $10,000 per annum
  • One-time allowance to assist with the move
  • Annual paid time off: 21 days (plus Caltech Holidays)
  • Annual sick leave: 15 days
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
Process timeline:
  • September 1, 2026: Applications are accepted
  • November 15, 2026: Deadline for applications, including reference letters
  • Mid-December 2026 – End of February 2027: 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.


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 )
And anything else requested in the description.

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