Scientist III

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, is hiring a Scientist III to analyze and interpret dark sector survey data. The role focuses on cosmological simulations, modeling, and interpretation, while contributing to Euclid, Roman, OpenUniverse, and future mission planning.

Responsibilities

• Bridge the gap between raw measurement and theoretical insight, providing critical expertise in cosmological simulations, modeling, and interpretation of cosmological data
• Join the vibrant JPL dark sector community contributing to the JPL-led OpenUniverse cosmological simulations project and the Euclid and Roman science teams. Beyond current missions, the successful candidate will join a collaborative team to shape the post-Roman landscape, developing mission concepts and strategies to influence the 2030 Decadal Survey
• Integrate astrophysical, instrumental, and statistical systematics into robust models, which will aim to define the future of how we understand the dark universe

Skills

• A Ph.D. in Astrophysics or a related discipline with a minimum of 2 years' experience, or a master's degree in a related discipline with a minimum of 4 years of related experience; or a bachelor's degree in a related discipline with a minimum of 6 years of related experience
• Deep technical foundation in some combination of cosmological simulations, modeling, and cosmological data interpretation
• Proven expertise in weak lensing and/or galaxy clustering as primary probes for investigating dark matter and dark energy
• Strong interpersonal skills and a demonstrated ability to thrive within a collaborative team environment
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• A proactive commitment to fostering diverse ideas and backgrounds in the workplace, ensuring a dynamic and inclusive research culture as we tackle the most complex questions in modern cosmology
• The Jet Propulsion Laboratory is a federal facility. Due to rules imposed by NASA, JPL will not accept applications from citizens of designated countries or those born in a designated country unless they are U.S. Citizens, Legal Permanent Residents of the U.S or have other protected status under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)
• A Ph.D. in Astrophysics or a related discipline with a minimum of 5 years' experience
• Demonstrated professional reputation as a productive researcher with a track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at national and/or international conferences
• Demonstrated record of successfully proposing for research funds as Principal Investigator

Benefits

• Health, dental, vision, wellbeing, and retirement plans
• Paid time off
• Learning
• Rideshare
• Childcare
• Flexible schedule
• Parental leave

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