New

Staff Scientist

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement
United States, California, Pasadena
Jul 31, 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 Staff Scientist will collaborate closely with Professor Julia A. Kornfield to conduct research focused on the analysis of polymer degradation products in polyalphaolefin systems. This is an Essential Reporting position. An employee designated as essential reporting has essential job skills that are needed for response and recovery; and is expected to report to campus as soon as possible. Essential Job Duties To develop improved protocols to increase the concentration of samples dissolved in polyalphaolefins while avoiding conditions that cause thermal or oxidative degradation. To apply thin layer chromatography and LCMS to search for degradation products from telechelic polycyclooctadiene. Keep detailed notes documenting problems encountered and attempts made to overcome them. Prepare a report on findings and methods. Perform other related duties as assigned. Basic Qualifications PhD in Chemical Engineering, Applied Chemistry, or Industrial Chemistry, and three years of postdoctoral experience characterizing chemical degradation. At least four years of hands-on experience using LCMS to analyze degradation products. Proficient in the use of thin layer chromatography, 1H NMR, UV-vis spectrometry. Must be able to lift objects weighing up to 10 pounds and fasten them to a rack at shoulder height. Requires prolonged standing and walking throughout the day. Preferred Qualifications Proven ability to work independently, developing new methods as needed to track chemical degradation. Required Documents Resume Hiring Range $28.75 - $34.00 Per Hour 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.