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
How to apply
- Read the full advert on the source site — it carries the authoritative terms.
- Prepare your SOP, CV, transcripts and referees before the deadline.
- Apply through the university's own portal. Never pay a fee to a third party.