The Astronomy and Square Kilometre Array (SKA) Catalytic Niche Area within the College of Science, Engineering, and Technology at the University of South Africa (UNISA) invites applications for five postdoctoral fellowship positions. Funded through UNISA’s Astronomy flagship programme, these prestigious positions are available for three years and offer an annual fellowship of ZAR 360,000 (~USD 20,000).
Research Opportunities
The fellowship offers a chance to work on groundbreaking research using premier astronomical facilities such as SALT, MeerKAT, HartRAO, ALMA, and global VLBI networks like EVN and EAVN. Collaborations include esteemed projects such as MeerKAT Legacy Surveys, the HESS project, SETI, and the SKA initiative.
Fellows are expected to contribute to research areas, including:
- Interferometric data processing
- Maser’s theory and observations
- Star formation and clusters
- Galaxy evolution and galaxy clusters
- Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI)
- Machine learning applications to radio data interpretation
Duties will also involve co-supervising postgraduate students and engaging in astronomy outreach activities.
Project Highlights
Project 1: Using Neutral Hydrogen for Cosmology: The Impact of Bias Assumptions
This project focuses on neutral hydrogen studies to advance cosmological research, emphasising refining bias modelling. It involves simulations, theoretical analyses, and the development of data science skills, paving the way for further academic or industry roles.
Project 2: The Clustering of Clusters
This project probes cosmological questions like sigma-8 tension by measuring galaxy cluster clustering and weak lensing signals. This project combines theory and observation using data from Cosmic Microwave Background experiments and optical surveys.
Project 3: Data Science in Astronomy Tourism
Aligned with the DSI Astrotourism strategy, this project evaluates sites suitable for astronomy tourism using Earth observation data, providing insights into the intersection of astronomy, data science, and tourism.
Project 4: Tully-Fisher Studies of Galaxies Using SALT and Archival Data
This project leverages optical spectroscopy and photometry to explore the Tully-Fisher relation as a distance indicator. It will contribute to future SKA studies while offering data science skill development avenues.
Eligibility and Application Process
Applicants must have completed a PhD in Astronomy or Astrophysics within the last five years. Applications should include:
- A cover letter
- A detailed CV with a list of publications
- A research plan
- Two reference letters sent directly to the contacts below
Submit your application to:
- Prof. James O. Chibueze (chibujo@unisa.ac.za)
- Prof. Catherine Cress (catherine.cress@gmail.com)
Application Deadline: January 10, 2025. Late submissions will not be considered.
Astronomy Niche Area Members
For more details, contact the faculty members listed below.
- Prof James O. Chibueze
- Prof Catherine Cress
- Prof Amos Kubeka
- Prof Derck Smits
- Dr Zolile Mguda
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