Researcher (Space Physics Focus)

Our  client is a public entity.

To achieve this mandate, the Agency fosters research in space science and technology advances space engineering programmes and supports the creation of an environment conducive to industrial development in space technologies within the framework of national government policy.

Our client thrives on its employees' creativity, competencies, expertise and ingenuity to succeed in a high-performing environment. 

The following opportunity exists to be filled by an individual with the relevant skills, drive, competencies and qualifications.

Researcher (Space Physics Focus)

Location: Hermanus, Western Cape

Programme: Space Science

Contract Type: Permanent

Reporting to the Science Research and Applications Manager, the Researcher will undertake cutting edge research in a space science related field, train postgraduate students and build a research track record while contributing to growing knowledge and developing applications within.

The ideal candidate must have the following qualifications and experience:

• PhD – Space Science/Space Physics/Applied Mathematics/Engineering
• 3-5 years' experience in a research position
• Excellent research track record that demonstrates the ability to do independent research in Space Physics with a preference for solar physics and helio-physics.
• Peer-reviewed publications with a preference for first-author papers.
• Experience in delivering lectures and seminars.
• Experience in research proposal writing.
• Participation in science advancement activities and human capital development with a preference for postgraduate student supervision.
• Programming skills with a preference for Python.
• The ability to work independently and as part of the team.
• Preference will be given to skills sets and research fields that advance SANSA's operational space weather ambitions.
• An advantage is having established or potential research contacts in other African countries.
• NRF rating would be an advantage.

Key performance areas will include, but are not limited to:

• Undertake cutting edge research and development
• International and national partnerships
• Human Capacity development and outreach
• General administration