SKA-Mid Commissioning Scientists

SKA Observatory; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 800,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading space research organization in Cape Town is offering a unique opportunity for talented radio astronomers to engage in the scientific commissioning of the world's largest mid-frequency radio telescope. The role involves close collaboration with engineering teams, planning and execution of test observations, and supporting science verification. Candidates must have a PhD in astronomy or physics with substantial experience in observational radio astronomy.

Qualifications

• Substantial experience in observational radio astronomy required.
• Good understanding of science enabled by SKA is essential.
• Experience working in construction, commissioning or operation of a radio observatory.

Responsibilities

• Plan, execute and analyze test observations on the array.
• Collaborate closely with the engineering groups to verify the system.
• Support the AIV group to verify top-level engineering requirements.
• Interact with the Science Operations Group for Science Verification.

Skills

Observational radio astronomy

Radio astronomical techniques

Data reduction and interpretation

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in astronomy or physics

Job description

The Role

This is a unique opportunity for talented and motivated radio astronomers to play major roles in the scientific commissioning of SKA-Mid, the world’s largest mid‑frequency radio telescope.

Appointees will take responsibility for specific technical areas, working under the direction of the Lead Commissioning Scientist, who will act as their functional and line manager.

These roles are based in Cape Town, South Africa.

There will be a requirement for international travel, particularly to the SKAO Headquarters at Jodrell Bank, the SKAO Engineering Operations Centre in Klerefontein, and to the telescope site.

Key Responsibilities, Accountabilities and Duties

• Take responsibility for science commissioning, i.e. planning, execution and analysis of test observations on the array. The group will work closely with the System Science Group based at GHQ (Jodrell Bank), which has oversight of commissioning of both SKA‑Mid and SKA‑Low.
• Close collaboration with engineering (hardware and software) groups involved in construction to verify aspects of the system and to identify and correct faults. There will be a particularly close interaction with the Assembly, Integration and Verification (AIV) Group, also based in Cape Town.
• Support the AIV group to verify the top‑level engineering requirements of the array.
• Maintain a close interaction with the Science Operations Group, in particular to support Science Verification.

There may also be opportunities to work with SARAO and MPIfR on the commissioning of Extended MeerKAT, which will eventually be integrated with SKA‑Mid.

Mandatory Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• A PhD (or equivalent) in astronomy or physics, with substantial experience in observational radio astronomy.
• A strong understanding of radio astronomical techniques and demonstrated ability to reduce and interpret data from radio telescopes.
• A good understanding of the science enabled by the SKA.
• Experience of working in one or more of the construction, commissioning or operation of a radio observatory.
• Demonstrated experience of working in a small team, contributing constructively to an inclusive and high performing team culture.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• A proven track record in commissioning of radio telescopes (hardware or software), including test, scripting and debugging experience, and a demonstrable ability to analyse complex, system‑level problems.
• A background in mid‑frequency interferometry and/or non‑imaging (beam‑forming) applications such as pulsar search and timing.
• Experience of remote working with teams across multiple time zones.
• Proficiency in written documentation, particularly test and problem reporting.

Equality Diversity and Inclusion Statement

SKA Observatory recognises that our diversity is a strength. We aim to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone feels they belong, and diverse perspectives and ideas thrive. As such, Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion are at the core of SKA Observatory’s agenda.

Our aim is to recruit and retain the most talented individuals, regardless of gender, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, nationality or background.

Women have traditionally been under‑represented in the fields of science and engineering; SKA Observatory welcomes and encourages female applicants.

Where applicants with a disability need facilities or adjustments to enable them to participate in the recruitment process, these will be provided.

SKA Observatory welcomes all candidates, especially those from member countries.

The “How to Apply” information contained within the SKA Observatory recruitment portal provides more detail regarding our application and selection approach.

Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level
Employment type: Contract
Job function: Science
Industries: Space Research and Technology

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