The Department of Physics at Stellenbosch University (SU) is seeking an upward-growing expert in astrophysics who can conduct research and teaching in all areas of physics.
The research focuses on connecting fundamental physics with astronomical observations and aims at understanding the fundamental laws of the Universe and unravelling the nature of dark matter and dark energy. In particular, cosmic microwave background radiation, epoch of reionisation, the early universe, dark matter indirect detection, neutron stars and black holes are actively investigated. The research group is also heavily involved in South Africa's MeerKAT, SKA, and HERA telescopes, and several international projects such as FAST and CMB Stage-4.
Duties
Teaching and coordinating undergraduate and postgraduate modules.
Actively conducting research and publishing in peer-reviewed journals in a field aligned to one of the Department's research focus areas in astrophysics.
Recruiting and supervising postgraduate students in astrophysics.
Establishing a research group in a field aligned to one of the research focus areas in the department epoch of reionisation, the early universe, and the dark matter indirect search, with preference of involvement in either HERA telescope (Hydrogen Epoch Reionisation Array), MeerKAT (SKA Precursor) telescope, or international CMB surveys.
Securing research funding.
Participating in academically relevant departmental and Faculty activities, as required.
Job Requirements
PhD degree in physics, astronomy, or astrophysics.
Good verbal and written communication skills in English.
For appointment as Lecturer:
Teaching experience in physics (as lecturer, or teaching assistant/tutor at tertiary level).
An active research interest in astrophysics and cosmology, with interests and experience on the epoch of reionization, the early universe or the pulsar timing array.
For appointment as Senior Lecturer:
Proven ability and commitment to teaching physics at both undergraduate and postgraduate level.
Evidence of recent research in astrophysics and cosmology, with interests and experience on the epoch of reionisation, the early universe or the pulsar timing array.
Evidence of a sustained publication output as first author in high-quality international journals.
Proof of successful postgraduate supervision as main supervisor, at least at master's level.
Proven ability to seek external funding.
Recommendation
Postdoctoral or relevant research experience in academia.