EXP

California Institute of Technology, Physics, Mathematics & Astronomy Division
Fellowship ID:
Caltech-PMA-EXP [#30372]
Fellowship Title: 
EXP Fellowships in Experimental Physics and Astrophysics
Fellowship Type:
Postdoctoral
Location:
Pasadena, California 91125, United States of America [map ]
Subject Areas: 
Radio/mm/submm Astrophysics and Cosmology incl. instrumentation development
Atomic Molecular and Optical Physics
Gravitational Physics
High Energy Physics
Astrophysics (more...)
Physics
Biophysics
Condensed Matter Physics
High Energy Astrophysics
Nuclear Physics
Quantum Information Science
Low-Energy Particle Physics
UV/O/IR Astrophysics and Cosmology incl. instrumentation development
Particle Astrophysics
Compensation:
$85,000
Appl Deadline:
2025/11/02 03:59 AM (Offers made - Due to the volume of appli posted 2025/09/01 05:00 AM, updated 2025/08/13, listed until 2026/02/14 04:59 AM)
Description:
  Apply    
Description

The Caltech Division of Physics, Mathematics and Astronomy offers a number of named Experimental Physics and Astrophysics Postdoctoral Prize Fellowships (EXP Fellowships). EXP Fellowships are for a three-year duration and to begin in the fall 2026, or a mutually agreeable date.

 

The EXP program has been established to offer scientists, typically within a few years after receipt of their PhD, the opportunity to pursue innovative experimental research, including but not limited to Astrophysics, Atomic Molecular and Optical Physics, Biophysics, Condensed Matter Physics, Soft Condensed Matter Physics, Gravitational Physics (via the dedicated Braginsky/Whitcomb Fellowship), High Energy Physics, Low-Energy Particle Physics, Nuclear Physics, Quantum Information, or Cosmology.

 

It is expected that this research will require the support and facilities of one of the established experimental groups at Caltech (accessible from this list ) . Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact faculty members to gauge mutual interest.

 

In the case of astrophysics, only candidates with a focus on instrumentation and/or experimental laboratory work will be considered for EXP fellowships.

 

Electronic copies of the curriculum vitae, publications list (refereed papers on top), and statement of research interests are required. The research statement should be no more than 5 pages, excluding references. The applicant is requested to ensure that at least three letters of recommendation are submitted on their behalf.

 

Qualifications and terms of appointment:

• PhD in Physics, Astronomy, or related field (completed or expected by start date)
• Eligibility extends to current postdoctoral scholars
• Appointment term: 3 years
• Salary: $85,000 in the first year
• Research fund: $10,000 per annum
• One-time allowance to assist with the move
• Annual vacations: 21 days (plus Caltech Holidays)
• Annual sick leave: 15 days
• Health, dental, and vision insurance

 

Process timeline:

• September 1, 2025: Applications are accepted
• November 1, 2025: Deadline for applications, including reference letters
• Mid-December 2025 – End of February 2026: Offers
• View or update your application using the "Status" link after login
  

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. Learn more about our benefits and who is eligible .

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 .
 
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 the contact on the job posting.

Application Materials Required:
Submit the following items online at this website to complete your application:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Research statement
• Publication list
• Three reference letters (to be submitted online by the reference writers on this site )

And anything else requested in the description.
Further Info:
http://www.pma.caltech.edu/about/job-opportunities
 
1200 E. California Blvd.
Pasadena, CA 91125