Postdoctoral Research Fellow: BRICS at NRF National Research Foundation

About the position

The South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) and the Astronomy Department of the University of Cape Town (UCT) invite applications for a 3 year joint postdoctoral position related to the Vera C. Rubin Observatory- s Legacy Survey of Space and Time (LSST), with a strong focus on cataclysmic variables, compact binaries or related objects.

We seek an outstanding individual to join the research group led by Professor David Buckley, who is a South African LSST Principal Investigator involved in optical transient follow-up.

The appointee will become a Junior Affiliate on the South African LSST transient program, involving preparatory work ahead of the main survey, due to start in 2024, including utilizing various LSST software tools.

Purpose:

• Conduct postdoctoral research position related to the BRICS STI and Flagship programmes, with a focus on transient and time domain studies of cataclysmic variables (CVs), compact binaries or related objects.

Key Responsibilities:

• There will be ample opportunities to lead research programs using the range of SAAO optical/IR facilities, including the 10-m SALT, and to collaborate on the various transient and survey follow-up projects, potentially involving other multi-wavelength facilities (e.g.MeerKAT). Opportunities for involvement in student supervision, teaching and outreach, are also possible, if desired.

Key Requirements:

Qualification:

• A PhD in astronomy with expertise in accreting binaries
• A good publication record, commensurate with career stage

Experience:

• Some familiarity or interest in software associated with the automated followup of transient alerts
• Experience with polarimetric observations and associated modelling.

Knowledge:

• Python coding and/or related software development experience

Additional Notes:

DESIRABLE EXPERIENCE

• Some familiarity or interest in software associated with the LSST (e.g. Operations Simulators, Metrics Analysis Framework)
• Experience with polarimetric observations and associated modelling
• The position will be filled once a viable candidate is identified. The salary package is competitive and funding support will be provided for computing resources and travel.
• Applicants should apply on [URL Removed] attaching a cover letter, including a statement outlining their research and broader interests and experience (no more than 3 pages), their CV plus the contact details of 2 potential references by no later than 31 May 2024.
• More information concerning the SAAO may be found at [URL Removed]
• Informal enquiries may be directed to Professor David Buckley ([Email Address Removed]).

Information:

The website [URL Removed] provides more details on the NRF initiatives and activities.

Applications:

Applicants should submit a comprehensive CV by logging to [URL Removed] and apply online. Applications should be accompanied by a letter of motivation indicating the applicant
- s suitability for the position.

The names and contact details of at least three referees should be provided.

Closing Date: 31 May 2024

The NRF offers a challenging career and competitive remuneration package which is commensurate with qualifications and experience. The NRF is committed to employment equity and redress and the appointment to the position will be made in line with the NRF Employment Equity Plan.

The NRF reserves the right not to make an appointment.

Correspondence will be sent to short-listed candidates only

Desired Skills:

• Skilled in applied field of position
• Knowledge to be relevant
• Responsible in performing duties

About The Employer:

The National Research Foundation (NRF) supports and promotes research and human capital development through funding, the provision of National Research Facilities and science outreach platforms and programmes to the broader community in all fields of science and technology, including natural sciences, engineering, social sciences and humanities.

The South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) is the National Facility for Optical and Infrared Astronomy of the National Research Foundation (NRF). Its headquarters are in Cape Town, while its telescopes are at Sutherland in the Northern Cape. Distributed between the two sites, SAAO employs roughly 130 people, many of them scientists and engineers, and is contracted to operate SALT (the Southern African Large Telescope) on behalf of the international SALT Foundation. SAAO is the premier optical/infrared research facility on the African continent, with global research and outreach collaborations, and contributing to human capital development for South Africa.