Scientific Researcher

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement
United States, California, Pasadena
Nov 15, 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 The candidate will conduct analysis and modeling of the seismicity induced by hydrofracturing or an Enhanced Geothermal System project. The data analysis requires assembling of the seismicity data (the existing catalogs and the waveforms), production of enhanced seismicity catalog using ML and/or template matching. The modeling will be based on fracture mechanics and rate-and-state friction.The candidate will be reporting directly to the director of GMG. Essential Job Duties Produce a seismicity catalog using ML tools for phase picking, association and events locations. Enhance the catalog with template matching. Refine earthquake location with waveform correlation and he double-difference technique. Develop the hydrofracture model necessary for the execution of the research. Provide tutorials (possibly using Jupyter Notebook) Train students and postdocs to use the modeling and data analysis tools. Interact with industry partners of GMG. Present research and modeling tools at GMG annual meetings and Deep Dives. Draft scientific articles in collaboration with the GMG PIs and the collaborators involved in the research. Other duties as assigned. Basic Qualifications PhD degree in Earth Sciences with three (3) years of Postdoctoral experience. Good expertise in Rock mechanics, Earthquake physics, and thermo-poro-elasticity. Experience in scientific programming (Python, Julia) and numerical modeling. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, organization skills, and interpersonal skills. Ability to effectively and continuously prioritize and use sound judgment, based on knowledge and understanding of PI's and lab's needs. Must possess strong problem-solving skills. Preferred Qualifications Experience with Geothermal. Required Documents Resume Hiring Range $79,700 to $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 employment@caltech.edu. 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 employment@caltech.edu.