Burke-Leinweber Fellowships in Theoretical Physics and Astrophysics

About this position

• The California Institute of Technology (Caltech) solicits applications
• for the Prize Fellowship program of the Walter Burke Institute for
• Theoretical Physics and the newly founded Leinweber Forum for
• Theoretical Physics. Fellowships are to begin in the Fall 2027,
• offering an opportunity for outstanding recent and new Ph.D.
• recipients to perform research at Caltech for three to four years.
• They are selected by a faculty committee representing all areas of
• theoretical physics and astrophysics at Caltech and are provided with:

• flexibility, support, and freedom in choosing research directions within theoretical physics and astrophysics (including but not limited to theoretical astrophysics/cosmology, condensed matter theory, general relativity, particle/string theory, mathematical physics, and quantum information),

• an inclusive environment with faculty mentorship and activities organized by the Burke Institute and Leinweber Forum to promote scientific exchanges and professional growth.

• The Burke and Leinweber Fellowship program significantly expands and
• strengthens Caltech’s long-standing program of Prize Fellowships in
• Theoretical Physics and Astrophysics. The Prize Fellowship program has
• been successful with over 95 percent of the more than 120 former
• fellows holding distinguished academic positions, as shown at
• http://burkeinstitute.caltech.edu/people/postdoctoral-fellows.
• Applicants should submit curriculum vitae, a statement of research
• interests (no more than 5 pages, excluding references), and a list of
• publications (refereed papers on top). Applicants should also ensure
• that at least three letters of reference are submitted on their
• behalf.
• Applicants interested in being considered for a joint appointment in
• theoretical astrophysics with Carnegie Observatories must also apply
• here.
• Qualifications and terms of appointment:

• PhD in Physics, Astronomy, or related field (completed or expected by start date)

• Eligibility extends to current postdoctoral scholars

• Appointment term: 3 to 4 years

• Salary: $88,000 in the first year

• Research fund: $10,000 per annum

• One-time allowance to assist with the move

• Annual paid time off: 21 days (plus Caltech Holidays)

• Annual sick leave: 15 days

• Health, dental, and vision insurance

Process timeline:

• September 1, 2026: Applications are accepted

• November 15, 2026: Deadline for applications, including reference letters

• Mid-December 2026 – End of February 2027: Offers

• View or update your application using the "Status" link after login