Senior Research Scientist

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement
United States, California, Pasadena
May 27, 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 We are seeking an Senior Research Scientist who will develop, test, and implement new, physics/AI hybrid parameterizations of subgrid-scale processes in the Climate Modeling Alliance's (CliMA's) Earth system model. The focus will be on atmospheric processes such as turbulence, convection, and clouds, including their microphysics. Essential Job Duties The successful candidate will advance the state of knowledge and contribute to the development of a data-informed atmosphere model in one or more of several possible ways: Use your expertise in cloud physics, turbulence, and/or convection to design and develop subgrid-scale models in an Earth System model with physics/AI hybrid approaches. Design and implement models within the CliMA code base, write integration tests, carry out suitable benchmarks for validation of these models, and calibrate them with data. Carry out, analyze, and improve global climate simulations. Carry out original research using the CliMA model and author papers in the peer-reviewed literature. Basic Qualifications PhD in a field of science, mathematics, or engineering. At least 5 years postdoctoral experience working with and developing climate models. Strong physical, statistical, or computational background. Programming experience in at least one general-purpose language. Demonstrated effective written and verbal communication skills. Preferred Qualifications Demonstrated experience in a collaborative climate modeling project. At least 5 years of experience modeling turbulence, convection, and clouds demonstrated in peer-reviewed publications. Required Documents Curriculum Vitae Hiring Range $90,000 to $145,000 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 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.