Staff Scientist at California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

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

The Division of Geological and Planetary Science is seeking to hire a research scientist with a background in (sub)millimeter interferometric observations and experience in radiative transfer modeling of planetary atmospheres.

Essential Job Duties

• Complete data reduction, analysis, and modeling tasks independently.
• Lead publications.
• Submit yearly ALMA proposals targeting outer solar system objects.
• Perform the corresponding data reduction and analysis tasks.
• Involved in broader work with the de Kleer group in the analysis of additional millimeter-wave observations and relevant data from other facilities targeting the Saturn system.
• Lead research projects investigating the chemical composition of objects in the Saturnian system (in particular, Titan, Saturn, and Enceladus).

Basic Qualifications

• PhD in astronomy, planetary science, or a related discipline.
• Track record of first-author publications focused on (sub)millimeter observations of Solar System objects. 
• Proficiency in radiative transfer modeling and analysis. 
• Expertise in modeling spatially resolved spectral line and continuum observations of gas giant planets and their natural satellites,
• Familiarity with line-by-line radiative transfer modeling of planetary atmospheres and diffuse emission (e.g., plumes).

Preferred Qualifications

• At least 5 years of experience leading self-motivated scientific research post-PhD. 
• Extensive experience in ALMA data reduction and analysis. 
• Experience in thermal modeling of satellite continuum emission.
• Demonstrated ability to submit successful observing proposals. 
• Proficiency in Python, IDL, and Fortran. 

Required Documents

• Resume