Division of the Humanities and Social Sciences
Postdoctoral Scholar Research Associate in Social Science
Applications Due:
November 29, 2026
The Division of the Humanities and Social Sciences at the California Institute of Technology invites applications for a postdoctoral scholar research associate (postdoc) to start July 1, 2027. The postdoc appointment will run for two years, unless a shorter term is mutually agreeable.
We seek candidates at the beginning of their academic careers with exceptional scholarly promise whose research connects with the interests of Caltech’s social science faculty. Areas of particular interest include economic theory, experimental economics, political economy, quantitative and formal political science, economic history, environmental economics, and industrial organization.
The position offers time to develop an independent research agenda, and the postdoc will have the opportunity to participate in the vibrant intellectual community of the social sciences division through regular seminars and lunches and interactions with faculty, graduate students and visiting scholars. There are no teaching responsibilities or requirements to work on a faculty member’s research projects.
Candidates must complete all requirements for a Ph.D. in a social science field before the appointment begins but need not have completed the degree at the time of application. Candidates who wish to defer the start of a faculty appointment to spend a year at Caltech are also encouraged to apply.
Interested candidates should apply electronically by uploading a short cover letter which clearly states the applicant’s subfield, curriculum vitae, research statement, and job-market paper. Applicants should also arrange for three letters of recommendation to be submitted through the application portal. Questions about the position may be directed to the search committee chair at [email protected].
The application deadline is November 29, 2026.
Hiring Salary: $80,000
The appointment will include research funds of $5,000 per year and a one-time $2,500 hire-on bonus.
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. Learn more about our benefits and staff perks.
Questions about the application process may be directed to: [email protected].
Instructions for Applicants
- Create an account.
- Fill out the application form.
- After you submit your application form send the link that is provided to your three references and have them upload their letters of recommendation.
- Upload the following documents (as individual files or in one combined pdf):
- a short cover letter which clearly states the applicant’s subfield;
- curriculum vitae;
- research statement;
- and job-market paper.
Caltech is an equal opportunity employer and, as a federal contractor, takes affirmative action to employ qualified individuals with disabilities and protected veterans. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Postdoctoral positions are term appointments with specific renewal requirements.