Post-Doctoral Fellow at NRF National Research Foundation

About the position

Postion Summary:
iThemba LABS seeks to appoint a postdoctoral scientist who will join the in-house team tasked to ensure optimum utilization and operation of the spectrometer and its detection systems, to utilize such detectors in experimental work in their pursuit of a research career in experimental nuclear physics.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform measurements with the electron spectrometer using long and short-lived radioactive sources
• Participate in the ongoing development of the electron spectrometer
• Be the key person in the coupling and commissioning of the electron spectrometer with the K600 spectrometer
• Initiate and lead own research, collaborating with national and international scientists
• Train MSc and PhD students

Minimum Qualification:

• Ph.D. in experimental nuclear physicsMinimum Experience:
• Experience in operation of, and experimentation with magnetic spectrometers and gamma-ray detectors
• Experience in electron and gamma-ray spectroscopy
• Experience in experimental research nuclear structure studies
• Publication record in experimental nuclear physicsKnowledge:
• Proven ability to pursue own research interests
• Experience doing experiments utilizing ion beams
• Experience with data acquisition and analysis software, with a high level of computer literacy and programming skills, especially using C++,ROOT and python in a Linux environment
• Experience with electronics used in nuclear physics experimentsGood interpersonal and communication skills
• Applicable knowledge to work as part of a diverse team (scientists, engineers, technicians),
• Applicable knowledge to train students and transfer knowledge/skillsExcellent analytical thinking skills
• Excellent problem-solving abilities
• Applicable knowledge to work under pressure
• Applicable knowledge to work safely in a laboratory environment

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.

iThemba LABS is Africa's leading research facility for accelerator-based science that is committed to advance knowledge, transform lives and inspire the nation. We do this through probing fundamental aspects of nuclear structure, investigating the origins of matter, and advancing humanity's understanding of condensed matter. We have a direct societal impact through the provision of radioisotopes for the health sector and isotope analysis for the environmental sector.