Senior Astronomer

SARAO - South African Radio Astronomy Observatory
Cape Town, Western Cape
Full-time
Posted 1 hour ago
Full-time
Apply for this job

Job Description

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.)

Interested in this role?

You'll apply on SARAO - South African Radio Astronomy Observatory's own site before 13 November 2026. Put your most relevant experience at the top of your CV first.

Apply Now

Real employers never ask you to pay to apply. How to spot a job scam

Similar jobs you might like
Claims Manager
Red Ember Recruitment · Durbanville
Desktop Assessor
Red Ember Recruitment · Durbanville
Assessment Centre Coordinator: Provincial Assessment Center, Ref No. DOTP 115/2026
Western Cape Government · Cape Town
Deputy Director: Acquisition and Contract Management, Ref No. DOTP 116/2026
Western Cape Government · Cape Town
Apply for this job
Job details
Job TypeFull-time
LocationCape Town, Western Cape
Experience8+ years
Posted30 October 2026
Closing Date13 November 2026
SARAO - South African Radio Astronomy Observatory
Cape Town, Western Cape

New to applying?

Free guides on CVs, cover letters, interviews and the Z83 form.

How to apply guides
Apply for this job