New

Scientific Software Developer

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement
United States, California, Pasadena
Aug 11, 2026
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 Winfree Lab is seeking a scientific software developer to continue the development of innovative software tools and applications that advance the lab's research in programmable molecular systems. The role involves designing and implementing new features in a differentiable programming model for indexed chemical reaction networks and interfacing with users. Essential Job Duties Conduct software development research for molecular programming, focusing on stochastic and deterministic simulation of indexed chemical reaction networks. Review relevant literature and existing computational tools to inform software design. Develop clear documentation, tutorials, and example workflows to support use of the software by researchers with diverse backgrounds. Collaborate with research team members to apply and refine software tools based on scientific needs and user feedback. Evaluate software performance, usability, and reliability through benchmarking, testing, and comparison with experimental results. Communicate research findings and software developments through presentations, publications, and conferences. Basic Qualifications Bachelor's degree in computer science, applied and computational mathematics, or equivalent. Programming experience with Python and JAX. At least two years of relevant software development experience. Preferred Qualifications Familiarity with computational biology models such as chemical reaction networks, differential equations, and reaction-diffusion systems. Strong analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills. Excellent written communication skills. Ability to work productively without close supervision. Required Documents Resume. Hiring Range $69,100 to $92,100 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 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.