Research Scientist

Research Scientist

Caltech

Job Category: Fulltime Regular
Exempt Overtime Eligible: Exempt
Benefits Eligible: Benefit Based

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Job Summary

The Division of Geological and Planetary Sciences is seeking to hire a Research Scientist with a specialization in mid-infrared spectroscopy for solar system science.

Essential Job Duties

• Lead a research program focused on developing a database of lab spectra of analog materials for asteroids and other small body populations, across the axes of composition, grain size, and porosity as simulated with K  mixtures.
• Collaborate with the de Kleer group on the application of lab spectra and compositional models to mid-infrared spectra of asteroids, primarily those obtained with the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST).
• Have expertise in lab sample preparation, measurement, and analysis utilizing FTIR spectroscopy.
• Conduct the lab aspects of the project independently and guide students on making measurements as needed.
• Analyze and interpret telescope data from the MIRI instrument on JWST.
• Work with the de Kleer group to submit annual proposals to JWST (and potentially other telescopes) within the general area of spectroscopy of small rocky objects.

Basic Qualifications

• PhD in physics, astrophysics, planetary science, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated leadership (e.g., through first-author publications) in mid-infrared lab spectroscopy to support Solar System observations, with a particular emphasis on asteroids and other small body populations.
• Proficiency with FTIR measurements of lab samples of minerals and meteorites.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience working with mid-infrared telescope spectra of solar system objects.

Required Documents

• Curriculum Vitae, including list of publications.
• One-page Cover Letter.
• Contact information for two references.

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