New

Research Support Assistant

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement
United States, California, Pasadena
May 21, 2025
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 IPAC at Caltech has an opening at the NASA Exoplanet Science Institute (NExScI) at Caltech has the need for an occasional Research Support Assistant to work with scientists to work with the NASA Exoplanet Archive team to put together an assessment of stellar companions associated with stars known to host exoplanets. The successful applicant will work with the team to extract data from the published literature, and assist in the analysis of optical speckle and infrared imaging data obtained as part of the TESS Follow-Up Observation Program. The analysis will involve the determination of stellar parameters for the companions. Caltech is more than a world-renowned science and engineering research and education institution; it is a community - a community of curious and passionate individuals who collaborate to understand and solve complex scientific and societal challenges. Caltech is an award-winning workplace and one of the best places to work in the greater Los Angeles area. Exceptional employees are critical to Caltech's success. IPAC, part of the Physics, Math, and Astronomy Division at Caltech (www.caltech.edu), provides science operations, user support, data and archive services, and scientific vision to maximize discovery with observatories both in space and on the ground. For more information and activities, please visit IPAC website (https://ipac.caltech.edu). This is 3 month term position. Job Duties As an IPAC Research Support Assistant, you will work with scientist David Ciardi on tasks related to his research on stellar companions in exoplanet hosting systems: Identify companion stars published in the literature and collate that data for ingestion into the Exoplanet Archive and ExoFOP.. Classify and catalog companion stars identified in imaging data obtained for TESS exoplanet host stars and recorded in the ExoFOP. Basic Qualifications Some courses in physics, astronomy, engineering or related discipline. Working knowledge of python Knowledge of a computing environment (Mac or PC). Ability to work independently and in a team environment. Preferred Qualifications Working knowledge of a word processing and spreadsheet (e.g., excel) software. Application Documents Cover Letter. Resume. 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. IPAC staff have access to the Institute's benefits programs, facilities, including the athletic center, libraries, on-site daycare, professional development and enrichment classes, and Athenaeum club membership. Hiring Range $18.50 - $21.25 Per Hour 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 If you would like to request an accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu.