Postdoctoral Researcher

VACANCY ADVERTISEMENT

The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) is a public entity under the National Department of Science and Innovation.

SANSA has the mandate to drive the promotion and use of space and cooperation in space-related activities. To achieve this mandate, the Agency fosters research in space science and technology advances space engineering programmes and supports the creation of an environment conducive to industrial development in space technologies within the framework of national government policy. More information about the organisation can be found at http://www.sansa.org.za.

SANSA thrives on its employees’ creativity, competencies, expertise and ingenuity to succeed in a high-performing environment. If you aspire to the SANSA values of, we Care for our People, we are Customer -Centric, we Innovate and Drive Impact, we Collaborate and we extend trust, then SANSA could be the place for you. The following opportunity exists in SANSA to be filled by an individual with the relevant skills, drive, competencies and qualifications.

Postdoctoral Researchers (2)

Location: Hermanus, Western Cape

Programme: Space Science

Contract Type: 3-year Contract

Reporting to the Science Research & Applications Manager and Chief Scientist, the Postdoctoral Researcher will undertake cutting edge research in space science related field and build a research track record while contributing to growing knowledge within SANSA. The postdoctoral researcher will work on observational and/or numerical simulation studies related to Atmospheric Gravity Waves and Traveling Ionospheric Disturbances.

Key performance areas will include, but are not limited to:

• Undertake cutting edge research and development
• National Partnerships
• Human Capacity Development and Outreach
• General Administration

The ideal candidate must have the following qualifications and experience:

• PhD – Space Science/Space Physics/Applied Mathematics
• Early career research experience with publications from PhD (at least submitted). Demonstrable experience in analysing data and solving problems
• Programming skills with a preference for Python
• Ability to work independently and as part of the team

Should you meet the above requirements, are very energetic and would love to join a very committed team, please upload your detailed CV, and apply on: Current Opportunities (mcidirecthire.com)

Disclaimer

Due to the high volume of applications received, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Should a candidate not hear from us within four (4) weeks following their application, they should consider their application unsuccessful. Strictly fair and non-discriminatory selection procedures will be followed. We use Affirmative Action (AA) measures in an endeavour to redress the disadvantages in employment experienced by designated groups. Where possible, preference will be given to candidates from the designated groups as defined in the Employment Equity Act and in line with SANSA's Employment Equity plans. SANSA reserves the right to defer or close a vacancy at any time. Background verification, including criminal records, credit checks, security clearances, qualifications, and citizenship checks, as well as competency assessment and psychometric testing, shall form part of the selection process. By applying for this vacancy, the candidates consent that SANSA can collect, process, and share their Personal Information (PI) for verification, assessments, and employment purposes only.

Closing Date: 03 August 2026