Post-Doctoral Fellow Radiation Biophysics at NRF National Research Foundation

About the position

Postion Summary:
The Radiation Biophysics Division at iThemba LABS consists of experimental facilities to study the effect of ionizing radiation on biological systems, ranging from in vitro work at cell level to in vivo experiments. The division recently commissioned a high-energy clinical proton beamline for radiobiology and medical physics research, which offers opportunities to perform experiments relevant to the rapidly growing fields of particle therapy and space research. In addition, iThemba LABS houses a unique quasi mono-energetic high-energy neutron beamline which provides unique opportunities for space radiobiology research. Furthermore, a wide range of radioisotopes are available for pre-clinical radiobiology research for the development of novel radiopharmaceuticals.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform in radiation biology using radiation sources of neutrons, protons, photons, gamma rays and/or radionuclidesParticipate in the ongoing development of the radiation biology researchInitiate and lead own research, collaborating with national and international scientistsTrain MSc and PhD studentsParticipate in the ongoing development of the Radiation Biophysics Division Research

Minimum Qualification:

• Doctoral Degree / NQF 10

Minimum Experience:

• 0-1 years

• PhD in Radiobiology, or related scientific field

Experience:

• Experience in radiation beamtime experimentsExperience in radiation biology research, specializing in cell biology methods and particle radiationAbility to develop new molecular and/or cell biology methods for use in particle radiation biology researchPublication record in radiation biophysics field

Knowledge:

• Familiar with Metafer Image Analysis Systems in detecting cellular radiation damage and flow cytometric methods
• Solid supervisory skillsSolid communication skills, both verbally and writtenGood interpersonal skillsPro-active and able to work with minimum supervisionProblem solving abilities and able to work under pressureAbility to work independently as well as part of a diverse team (scientists, engineers, technicians)Ability to work safely in a laboratory environmentA willingness to learn and transfer skills

Additional Notes:
The incumbent may be required to perform certain tasks in areas exposed to ionizing radiation. Therefore, as an occupationally exposed worker, medical clearance by a certified and authorised Occupational Medical Practitioner will be required, and all exposed and potentially exposed employees will be subject to an appropriate radiation and health monitoring programme, in accordance with the provisions of the Radiation Safety [URL Removed] NRF website provides more details on the initiatives and activities Applicants should submit a comprehensive CV by registering and apply online through the NRF Recruitment and Selection Portal. 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.

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.