Senior Astrophysicist - Observational Cosmology

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement contributions

Research allowance

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 in Sandton, Gauteng invites applications for a Senior Astrophysicist focusing on observational cosmology. The role blends on-site collaboration with a hybrid model, leveraging major telescope data to explore dark matter, dark energy, and galaxy evolution.

Ideal candidates hold a PhD in Astronomy/Astrophysics or related fields, with 5+ years postdoctoral experience in observational cosmology, and are proficient in Python, IDL, or C++.

Qualifications

• PhD in Astronomy/Astrophysics/Physics or related field.
• 5+ years postdoctoral research experience in observational cosmology.
• Proficiency with Python, IDL, or C/C++.
• Experience analyzing large astronomical datasets (imaging, spectroscopy).
• Strong publication record and ability to collaborate internationally.

Responsibilities

• Conduct advanced observational cosmology research using telescope data.
• Analyze large datasets to constrain cosmological parameters.
• Develop and apply data processing and modeling techniques.
• Collaborate with international teams on joint projects.
• Design and plan future observational campaigns and instrument development.
• Present findings at conferences and in journals.
• Mentor graduate students and postdocs in cosmology projects.
• Participate in operations of astronomical facilities from Sandton.

Skills

Scientific leadership

Python

IDL

C/C++

Education

PhD in Astronomy/Astrophysics/Physics

Tools

IRAF

Astropy

DS9

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading research institution at the forefront of cosmological studies, is seeking a Senior Astrophysicist with expertise in observational cosmology to join their dynamic team in Sandton, Gauteng . This role is crucial for advancing our understanding of the universe's evolution and fundamental properties. You will utilize cutting-edge observational techniques and large astronomical datasets to investigate dark matter, dark energy, and galaxy evolution. The position involves a hybrid work model, offering flexibility while ensuring essential on-site collaboration and access to specialized facilities in Sandton . This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking scientific discoveries in a globally recognized research environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct advanced observational research in cosmology using data from major telescopes and surveys.
• Analyze and interpret large astronomical datasets to probe fundamental cosmological parameters and phenomena.
• Develop and apply novel analysis techniques for astronomical data processing and modeling.
• Collaborate with international research teams on theoretical and observational projects.
• Contribute to the design and planning of future observational campaigns and instrument development.
• Present research findings at international conferences and publish in leading peer-reviewed journals.
• Mentor graduate students and postdoctoral researchers working on observational cosmology projects.
• Participate in the operational aspects of astronomical facilities as needed, with a significant portion of work conducted from Sandton .

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Physics, or a related field with a strong focus on observational cosmology.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral research experience in observational astrophysics.
• Demonstrated expertise in analyzing large astronomical datasets (e.g., imaging, spectroscopy) using standard astronomical software packages (e.g., IRAF, Astropy, DS9).
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, IDL, or C/C++.
• Strong theoretical understanding of cosmological models, inflation, dark matter, and dark energy.
• Experience with data reduction pipelines for optical, infrared, or radio telescopes.
• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research environment.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with a strong publication record.
• Ability to work effectively within a hybrid model, balancing remote work with on-site collaboration in Sandton .

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement contributions, and a generous research allowance. Access to cutting-edge computational resources and collaborations with leading international researchers are standard. The hybrid work arrangement provides flexibility, allowing for effective work-life balance while fostering teamwork within the Sandton research community.