Postdoctoral Scholar in Astronomy

1000scholars; Pasadena (CA); On-site; USD 76,000 - 82,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement savings plans

Generous paid time off

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

California Institute of Technology in Pasadena invites applications for a Postdoctoral Scholarship in Astronomy. The successful candidate will join Professor Kareem El-Badry’s group to study binary and multiple star evolution, leveraging Gaia DR4, Roman Space Telescope data, and surveys like SDSS-V, ZTF and Euclid.

Start Aug 1, 2027, for two years, renewable to a third; research funds provided; applications due Nov 10, 2026.

Qualifications

• Strong background in observational astronomy and stellar/binary astrophysics.
• Experience with large astronomical surveys and data analysis.
• Ability to develop independent research projects and collaborate with others.

Responsibilities

• Develop and pursue independent research projects in binary and multiple star evolution.
• Collaborate with the Caltech research group and other researchers.
• Prepare publications and proposals; work with Gaia DR4 / Roman Space Telescope data.

Job description

Position Description

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Scholarship in Astronomy at the California Institute of Technology. The successful candidate will work with Professor Kareem El-Badry and his research group on problems in binary and multiple star evolution, with emphasis on exploiting large astronomical surveys. We are particularly interested in candidates who plan to make use of data from Gaia DR4 and/or the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope. The successful candidate will have access to data from surveys including SDSS-V, ZTF, and Euclid, as well as opportunities to propose for observations using the Keck and Palomar Observatories. At least a fraction of the research is expected to focus on binary systems containing compact objects, but there is considerable flexibility in the specific research directions pursued. Candidates should have a strong background in observational astronomy and an interest in stellar and/or binary astrophysics. The successful candidate will be expected to develop and pursue independent research projects and will be encouraged to collaborate broadly and interact with other members of the Caltech research community.

The anticipated start date is August 1, 2027. The appointment is for an initial two-year term, renewable for a third year subject to satisfactory performance. The salary range is $76,000–$82,000 per year. The salary will be set based on experience and qualifications. Funds for research expenses and travel will be provided. Applicants should submit their curriculum vitae and publications, a description of research interests and plans, and should arrange for two letters of recommendation. Application received before November 10, 2026 will receive full consideration.

Benefits

As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents.

• 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

Caltech is an equal opportunity employer and, as a federal contractor, takes affirmative action to employ qualified individuals with disabilities and protected veterans. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

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