Job Summary
IPAC, part of the Physics, Math, and Astronomy Division at Caltech, provides science operations, user support, data and archive services, and scientific vision to enhance discovery with observatories both in space and on the ground. IPAC invites applications to the science staff from highly qualified individuals for a full-time position to work on a spectroscopic science pipeline on the wide-field instrument with the Roman team at IPAC.
The Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope is a NASA observatory designed to address key questions in the areas of dark energy, exoplanets, and infrared astrophysics. It is slated for launch in late 2026. The Roman Science Support Center (SSC) at IPAC is a part of the Roman Ground Data System, providing algorithm and software development for spectroscopic and Galactic Bulge Time Domain Survey data processing. In addition, the SSC will support the operations of the Coronagraph Instrument, manage the Roman guest investigator proposal solicitations, and provide community support for exoplanet and wide-field spectroscopy science with Roman.
For more details, see: https://roman.ipac.caltech.edu
Essential Job Duties
As a scientist on the Roman Science Support Center team at IPAC, you will:
• Develop and test algorithms for extracting near-infrared, slitless spectroscopy taken with the wide-field instrument and the measurement and classification of galaxy spectra.
• Participate in the planning and implementation of observatory and science calibration and commissioning of Wide Field spectroscopy with Roman.
• Work with software developers to implement and test pipeline modules.
• Write pipeline documentation and support the user community.
• Participate in meetings (virtual and in-person) with the wider Roman team.
• Conduct independent research.
Basic Qualifications
If you have the following in your background, then we want to hear about your interest in joining our team:
• PhD degree in astrophysics or a closely related field.
• 2 years post-PhD experience with data processing and calibration of infrared and/or optical spectra from space observatories.
• Ability to work in a team environment.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Qualify as a US PERSON as defined by ITAR regulations – A US person is a citizen of the United States, a lawful permanent resident alien of the US (“Green Card” holder), or an individual granted refugee or asylee status under US law.
Preferred Qualifications
Beyond these basic qualifications, there are a set of skills and experiences which will add to your ability to contribute to the roles and responsibilities of this position. Any of the following might give you a head start here, but even if these do not describe you or your experience, we would still like to hear from you.
• Reduction and analysis of slitless spectra, including spectral feature identification, decontamination and measurement.
• Experience in developing and testing software for inclusion in automated pipelines.
Required Documents
• Full resume
• Cover letter
• List of three professional references
Applications will be accepted until October 8, 2025. Preferred start date is December 2025 or earlier. Depending on start date, an initial remote working arrangement may be considered for up to three months.
People choose to work at IPAC for many reasons, and the casual, employee-centric culture often leads to fulfilling, long-term careers and lasting relationships. Caltech’s benefits program offers a quality, competitive benefits package that is affordable for you and the Institute. The program provides a strong base of coverage for you and your dependents, and the ability to choose the plan and the level of coverage that best meet your needs. We also offer a 403(b) defined contribution plan to eligible staff as well as a Voluntary Retirement Savings (TDA) Plan. IPAC staff have access to the Institute’s facilities, including the athletic center, libraries, on-site daycare, professional development and enrichment classes, and Athenaeum club membership.
Hiring Range
$79,700 – $112,500 Per Year
The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training.
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. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our benefits and staff perks.
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 eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf.
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 [email protected].
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 [email protected].