Description
Research Assistant Caltech Job Category: Fulltime Temporary Exempt Overtime Eligible: Overtime Eligible Benefits Eligible: Benefit Based 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 a Post Baccalaureate Research Assistant to work on instrument and data calibration for the DSA test array at the Owens Valley Radio Observatory. The position involves hands-on work with a world-class instrument and its data; characterizing and fine-tuning receiver settings, solving for baseline and antenna-position errors, and measuring and improving the pointing accuracy of the telescopes. The position is well suited to someone early in their research career, for example, a recent graduate considering a PhD, or a student seeking research experience. You will receive mentorship from project scientists and engineers, contribute directly to the observatory’s scientific output, and have opportunities to co-author technical notes and publications. Essential Job Duties Calibrate DSA observational data: derive and apply gain, bandpass, and delay solutions; solve for and correct errors in baselines and antenna positions. Improve instrument performance: characterize receiver behavior and fine-tune receiver settings to optimize sensitivity and stability. Improve telescope pointing: plan and conduct pointing measurements, analyze the results, and derive updated pointing models. Develop and maintain calibration software: write and extend Python analysis tools and pipeline components; keep code under version control and documented. Basic Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in physics, astronomy, electrical engineering, computer science, or a related field (completed or expected by the start date). Proficiency in Python for scientific data analysis (e.g., NumPy/SciPy, working with large datasets). Some hands-on research experience – through coursework projects, a senior thesis, an internship (e.g., REU), or prior employment. Clear oral and written communication skills. Ability to work on-site at OVRO in Big Pine, CA, including occasional outdoor work at the antennas. Preferred Qualifications Coursework or experience in radio astronomy, interferometry, or signal processing. Familiarity with radio-astronomy software such as CASA, or with calibration concepts. Experience working in a Linux environment and with version control (git). Experience with laboratory instrumentation, RF/electronics test equipment, or antenna measurements. Experience with radio-frequency interference (RFI) identification and mitigation. Required Documents Resume. Cover letter. To be considered for this position please visit our web site and apply on line at the following link: https://hr.caltech.edu/work/job_openings We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Copyright 2025 Jobelephant.com Inc. All rights reserved. Posted by the FREE value-added recruitment advertising agency je-0e6018f581e140ada56f364a0fa1429a