Research Scientist - Astrophysics

Placements24; Siyancuma Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Research funding

Health benefits

Professional development

Computational resources

Collaborative environment

Job summary

Placements24 in Upington, South Africa invites applications for a Research Scientist in Astrophysics. The role focuses on contributing to cosmology, stellar and extragalactic astronomy through data analysis, theoretical modeling, and potentially observational planning.

The successful candidate will work within a team of scientists in a cutting-edge facility, publishing results in peer-reviewed journals and presenting at international conferences.

Qualifications

• PhD in Astrophysics, Physics, or a closely related field.
• Proven research experience with a strong publication record.
• Proficiency in Python with NumPy/SciPy and Astropy for data analysis.
• Strong theoretical background in cosmology, general relativity, or stellar physics.
• Experience with computational modeling and simulation methods.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct theoretical research and data analysis related to astrophysical phenomena.
• Develop and apply computational models to simulate cosmic events and structures.
• Analyze data from telescopes and space-based observatories, interpreting results for advancement of knowledge.
• Contribute to design and planning of future observational projects or instrument development.
• Collaborate with a team of astronomers and physicists on research initiatives.
• Prepare findings for publication in peer-reviewed journals and present at conferences.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Data analysis proficiency

Education

PhD in Astrophysics/Physics or related field

Tools

Python (NumPy/SciPy)

Astropy

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a dedicated Research Scientist with a passion for Astrophysics to join their advanced research facility in Upington . This role is critical for contributing to groundbreaking research in cosmology, stellar evolution, or extragalactic astronomy. You will be involved in data analysis, theoretical modeling, and potentially observational campaigns, pushing the boundaries of our understanding of the universe. This is an exceptional opportunity for an astrophysicist to engage in high-impact research within a stimulating scientific environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct theoretical research and data analysis related to astrophysical phenomena.
• Develop and apply computational models to simulate cosmic events and structures.
• Analyze data from telescopes and space-based observatories, interpreting results to advance astrophysical knowledge.
• Contribute to the design and planning of future observational projects or instrument development.
• Collaborate with a team of astronomers and physicists on research initiatives.
• Prepare research findings for publication in peer-reviewed journals and present at scientific conferences.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Astrophysics, Physics, or a closely related field.
• Proven experience in astrophysical research, with a strong publication record.
• Proficiency in astrophysical data analysis techniques and relevant software packages (e.g., Python with NumPy/SciPy, Astropy).
• Strong theoretical background in areas such as cosmology, general relativity, or stellar physics.
• Experience with computational modeling and simulation methods is highly desirable.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, suitable for working in the Upington research community.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for research grants and funding support.
• Comprehensive health and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development, including attending international conferences.
• Access to advanced computational resources and research infrastructure.
• A collaborative and intellectually stimulating work environment.
• Contribution to significant advancements in the field of astrophysics.