SARAO - South African Radio Astronomy Observatory·Western Cape, south-africa·Full Time·Internship
EducationFull TimeInternship
-Closes Nov 13, 2026
Closes: November 5, 2026
Key Responsibilities:
Conduct research by observing, analysing and interpreting astronomical phenomena and developing methods, numerical models and techniques to extend knowledge
Evaluating results of investigations and experiments and expressing conclusions, mainly using mathematical techniques and models
Developing software, operational procedures and documentation by applying the principles and techniques of physics or astronomy in practice
Testing, commissioning and evaluating equipment used in radio astronomy by applying principles, techniques and processes to develop or improve the telescope system
Preparing scientific papers and reports
Teaching the theory and practice of astrophysics and radio astronomy at different educational levels.
Mentoring and training of junior staff members, graduate student supervision
Coordinating inputs from external and internal stakeholders to develop and execute commissioning and science verification plans.
Support observatory science operations needs.
Facilitating regular feedback amongst team members, and coordinating their work
Creating and coordinating scientific and technical working groups
Key Requirements:
Qualification:
PhD in astronomy, astrophysics or related field
8 years working in a research environment in the field of Radio Astronomy, post PhD
Experience:
Extensive experience in radio observations with at least two major observatories.
Extensive track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals in physics or astronomy
Track record of productive international collaborations.
Extensive expertise with radio data reduction, software and instrumentation.
Proficiency with modern data reduction packages.
Technical and academic writing
Knowledge:
Familiarity with the Linux operating system.
Mentoring of several young scientists and graduate students.
Domain expertise in one or more areas of observational radio astronomy (e.g. HI, continuum surveys, polarimetry, VLBI, single dish, time domain radio astronomy, etc.)