Scientific Researcher

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement
United States, California, Pasadena
Apr 07, 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 Scientific Researcher staff position for advanced computational chemistry and biochemistry studies as directed by Prof. William Goddard within the Materials and Process Simulation Center in the Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Essential Job Duties Investigating signal transduction mechanisms through G protein-coupled receptors and drug discovery. Developing antiviral drug targeting SARS-CoV-2 Nsp1. Designing novel PROTACs (proteolysis targeting chimeras) for precision cancer therapy. Developing reactive force fields (ReaxFF) for describing next-generation energy materials. Investigating the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) for high-efficiency Li metal batteries. Predicting proton transfer mechanisms in polymer electrolyte membranes. Investigating structural and dipole dynamics in molecular electrets. Predicting formation processes and reaction mechanisms of nanomaterials. Basic Qualifications BS and PhD in Chemistry, Physics or Materials Science. Excellent understanding of quantum mechanics, molecular dynamics, force fields for chemical systems. A good understanding of electronic structure of materials, reaction kinetics and electrochemical system. Excellent communication skills Eagerness to learn and tackle challenging impossible simulations. Preferred Qualifications Familiar with Ab-initio calculation packages (VASP(plane wave basis set), JAGUAR(Gaussian basis sets), CRYSTAL(hybrid DFT with Gaussian basis sets)),MD simulation software (LAMMPS), bond-detecting toll for solids (LOBSTER), and open-source package for atomic simulations (ASE, MP_API, Pymatgen). Required Documents CV Hiring Range $60,000 - $82,500 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 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.