[California Institute of Technology](https://www.caltech.edu)

January 1, 2026

Postdoctoral appointment; funding details not specified, but term appointment with renewal possible.

Postdoctoral positions for interdisciplinary research in decision theory, machine learning, optimization, and intelligent systems at Caltech.

--- ## Description The Decision, Optimization, and Learning at the California Institute of Technology (DOLCIT) program seeks outstanding postdoctoral scholars for positions beginning Fall 2026. DOLCIT unites experts in areas such as machine learning, optimization, applied mathematics, statistics, control, robotics, and human-computer interaction. The group focuses on advancing both fundamental and applied research related to decision-making, optimization, and learning, with a vision to develop intelligent systems that integrate learning and planning while managing computational and statistical tradeoffs. The program also offers opportunities to engage with Caltech’s AI4Science initiative, which applies artificial intelligence to a broad range of scientific fields. Postdoctoral scholars may have the chance to teach a course in the Computing and Mathematical Sciences (CMS) department as part of their professional development. --- ## Due Dates - January 1, 2026: Applications due / Full application deadline --- ## Funding Amount - The position is a postdoctoral appointment at Caltech; specific salary or funding package details are not published in the listing. - Appointments are term-based with the possibility of renewal, subject to departmental and institutional requirements. --- ## Eligibility - Open to applicants with a strong background in decision theory, machine learning, optimization, statistics, data-driven methods, applied mathematics, control, robotics, or human-computer interaction. - Candidates must have a PhD (or expect to have one by the start date) in a relevant field. - Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is required, as addressed in the research statement. - All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, or protected veteran status. --- ## Application Process 1. [Create an account](https://applications.caltech.edu/users/sign_up) on the Caltech application portal. 2. Complete the application form. 3. After submitting the form, send the provided reference link to at least three referees (up to five allowed) so they can upload their letters of recommendation. 4. Upload the following documents (as individual files or as a combined PDF): - Curriculum Vitae (required) - Research Statement (required, must include a section on contributions to diversity, equity, and inclusion) - Cover Letter (optional) - Teaching Statement (optional) 5. Applications will be reviewed starting January 1, 2026. --- ## Additional Information - Postdoctoral positions are term appointments with specific renewal requirements. - Participation in Caltech’s AI4Science program is possible and can be indicated in the application. - Teaching opportunities within the CMS department may be available with departmental approval. - Caltech is an equal opportunity employer. --- ## External Links - [DOLCIT program details and application portal](https://applications.caltech.edu/jobs/dolcitpd) - [DOLCIT research group website](http://dolcit.cms.caltech.edu/) - [Caltech main website](https://www.caltech.edu) --- ## Contact Information | Purpose | Contact | |-------------------------|--------------------------------------------------| | Application questions | [dolcitpd-search@caltech.edu](mailto:dolcitpd-search@caltech.edu) | | General Caltech contact | [Caltech Contact Page](https://www.caltech.edu/contact) | | Phone | (626) 395-6811 |

Decision, Optimization, and Learning at the California Institute of Technology (DOLCIT)

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