Postdoctoral Researcher in Extragalactic Radio Astronomy and Transients (4 Positions)

About the Role

The Department of Astronomy at the University of Cape Town has four postdoctoral researcher positions available in two areas: extragalactic radio astronomy and fast transients/gravitational wave sources. Appointments are for two years with an additional year contingent on satisfactory performance. UCT is located near the MeerKAT telescope and the future Square Kilometre Array (SKA) infrastructure, providing unique data access for radio astronomy research.

UCT postdoctoral fellows must hold a doctoral degree awarded within the last five years and work with a UCT host researcher or principal investigator. These positions are ideal for early-career astronomers looking to work at the forefront of multi-messenger astrophysics in Africa.

Responsibilities

• Conduct independent and collaborative research in extragalactic radio astronomy or fast transients/gravitational wave astrophysics
• Analyse radio telescope data from MeerKAT, ASKAP, or other facilities
• Publish results in leading astrophysics journals such as MNRAS, ApJ, or A&A
• Present research at national and international conferences
• Contribute to observing proposals and telescope time requests
• Participate in departmental seminars and mentor junior students informally

Requirements

• PhD in astrophysics, physics, or a closely related field, awarded within the last five years
• Strong research publication record relative to career stage
• Experience with radio interferometric data reduction (CASA, AIPS, or equivalent)
• Excellent written English and ability to work in an international team
• A willing UCT host researcher or principal investigator (to be identified before applying)

Nice to Have

• Experience with multi-messenger astronomy (gravitational waves, gamma-ray bursts, or fast radio bursts)
• Familiarity with MeerKAT, MeerTRAP, or ThunderKAT survey data
• Background in machine learning for transient detection or classification
• Prior work at a South African or African astronomy institution

How to Apply

Visit the UCT Postdoctoral Research Fellows Hub and Fellowships Noticeboard at uct.ac.za/research-innovation-postdoctoral-research-fellowships/fellowships-noticeboard to find current advertised positions in the Department of Astronomy. Download the HR201 form for staff vacancies. Contact prospective supervisors in the Astronomy Department before applying to confirm position availability and fit.