The Department of Astronomy of the University of Cape Town is offering a postdoctoral position to work with Prof Renée C. Kraan-Korteweg, South African Research Chair in Extragalactic Multi-wavelength Astronomy, on HI-data obtained with the recently completed 64-dish MeerKAT radio telescope of the South African Radio Astronomical Radio Observatory.

We are looking for an enthusiastic young radio astronomer with experience in analysing HI radio interferometric data, interested in working with the dynamic UCT HI radio-astronomy team. You would primarily be working on existing – and future - extragalactic HI-data obtained with the South African SKA Pathfinder MeerKAT, applying pipelines like the MeerKATHI and the IDIA Pipelines, and tools such as SOFIA. The research will form part of the MeerKAT HI-projects led by Kraan-Korteweg (e.g. the Vela SCL and Galactic Plane Survey), as well as the MeerKAT Large-Survey-Projects LADUMA,. FORNAX and MIGHTEE-HI. The successful applicant will be able to dedicate a significant fraction of his/her time on their own research, and will have access to the South African MeerKAT open time, and the optical 10m SALT telescope (the 30% South-African share) and other SAAO telescopes. Light departmental duties, such as help in tutoring, seminars, journal clubs and postgraduate student supervision will be expected.

The appointment is for two years, with possible extension of one year. A PhD in astronomy is required, postdoctoral experience a bonus. The salary is tax-free. Equipment and travel funding is available. Interested candidates should send a CV, bibliography, brief summary of research, outline of future plans, and arrange for three letters of recommendation to be sent to kraan@ast.uct.ac.za by January 31st, 2020. Applications will be considered from that date until the positions are filled. The position is available immediately.

“This position is based upon research supported by the South African Research Chairs Initiative (SARChI) of the Department of Science and Technology and the National Research Foundation.”