Research Mathematician

GIA (Gemological Institute of America); Carlsbad (CA); Hybrid; USD 111,500 - 144,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive medical, dental, vision and matching 401-K plans

Paid vacation, sick and holidays

Tuition assistance

Commuter benefits

Job summary

A leading nonprofit gemological institute in Carlsbad, California, is seeking a Research Mathematician to create mathematical models, collaborate with engineers, and publish original research. The ideal candidate will have a PhD in mathematics, over 5 years of experience, and skills in 3D computational geometry and programming. This role offers a competitive salary and a hybrid work schedule, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of equivalent experience required.
• Proven track record of publishable original research.
• A passion for both research and innovation.

Responsibilities

• Create and refine mathematical frameworks that power diamond geometry modeling.
• Collaborate closely with software engineers to turn theory into practical solutions.
• Publish original research in peer-reviewed journals.

Skills

3D computational geometry

Algorithm design

Data analysis

C#

Python

Creative problem solving

Analytical rigor

Strong communication skills

Education

PhD in mathematics or related field

Job description

Join to apply for the Research Mathematician role at GIA (Gemological Institute of America)

Overview

The Company: Founded in 1931, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is the world's leading authority in gemology. As a nonprofit organization, GIA sets industry standards and provides education in gems and jewelry. Its mission focuses on maintaining public trust through education, research, and laboratory services.

GIA's global operations are centered at its 17-acre oceanfront campus in Carlsbad, California, home to 600 of its 3,000 worldwide employees. The institute offers competitive benefits, demonstrating its commitment to employee welfare and environmental sustainability.

Location

This position is in Carlsbad, California at our corporate headquarters or at our Las Vegas, Nevada research campus. We offer a hybrid schedule with 3 days in the office (subject to change), provided metrics such as productivity and the quality of the deliverables are achieved.

What to expect

We foster an environment of autonomy, performance, and passion. Our team members collaborate extensively across various departments, providing high-quality service to internal staff, stakeholders, and the organization. We value initiative, cross-functional cooperation, and a commitment to excellence in all our endeavors.

What to expect:

• We offer competitive medical, dental, vision and matching 401-K plans (no vesting required)
• Paid vacation, sick and holidays, tuition assistance, commuter benefits

What You Will Work On

• Create and refine mathematical frameworks that power our diamond geometry modeling, cut classification systems, and visualizations.
• Collaborate closely with software engineers, researchers, and algorithm specialists to turn theory into working solutions for real-world gemological challenges.
• Publish original research in peer-reviewed journals and represent GIA at mathematics, computer science, and gemological conferences.
• Develop educational content and present your work to colleagues, industry leaders, and stakeholders.
• Perform complex 3D modeling, optimization, and data analysis tasks, always pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

Who You Will Work With

You’ll partner with GIA’s Senior Director of Diamond Cut Research, Senior Research Mathematician, R&D software engineers, and algorithm specialists. You’ll also collaborate with our education department, the broader research community, and external clients seeking expert insight.

What You Bring

• PhD in mathematics or related field required.
• 5+ years of equivalent experience required.
• Proven track record of publishable original research.
• Strong skills in 3D computational geometry, algorithm design, and data analysis.
• Proficiency in C# and Python preferred.
• A balanced combination of creative problem solving, analytical rigor, and strong communication skills.
• A passion for both research and innovation—and an interest in art and visual aesthetics.

Physical Requirements / Work Environment

Physical Demands The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. The employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand, walk, sit, and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required include close, distance, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. The employee is required to travel domestically and/or internationally, using commercial transportation resources.

Work Environment The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. The noise level is usually moderate.

Pay Range

$111,500-$144,000

Equal Opportunity Employer

All employment decisions are made without regard to unlawful considerations of race, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability, or any other legally protected status. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request.

Disclaimer

This job description indicates in general terms the type and level of work performed as well as the typical responsibilities of employees in this classification and may be changed by management at any time. Other duties may also apply. Nothing in this job description changes the at-will employment relationship existing between the Company and its employees.