SARChI Postdoctoral Fellow in Neutral Hydrogen Radio Interferometry University of Cape Town

The Department of Astronomy of the University of Cape Town is hosting two postdoctoral positions in the area of Wide-Field HI observations, associated with the South African Research Chair in Extragalactic Multi-wavelength Astronomy (chair holder: Prof Claude Carignan). South Africa is constructing MeerKAT, a 64-dish radio interferometer serving as an SKA precursor (http://www.ska.ac.za). One of the primary duties will be to work on the MHONGOOSE survey for ultra-deep HI observations of 30 nearby galaxies (PI: de Blok). Observations for the survey should start in mid-2018. The candidates are also expected to work on the definition of other HI Survey projects for MeerKAT, such as research on the cosmic web, combining MeerKAT and FAST (China) data or other HI work on international facilities (e.g. VLA, DRAO). Candidates with numerical simulations expertise will also be considered.

We are looking for enthusiastic candidates interested in joining the steadily growing UCT radio astronomy group to work with Prof Claude Carignan on preparing for these upcoming large HI surveys (sample selection, simulations, calibration, ancillary data collection, software and pipeline development). The candidates will have (and are expected to spend) a significant fraction of their time available for their own research projects. We are looking for candidates with experience in radio interferometric observations and software programming. On the optical side, candidates will also have access to the 30% South-African share on the 10m SALT and other telescopes at SAAO and may be asked to prepare and execute ancillary programs to the HI surveys. Finally, candidates will be asked to help out with light departmental duties (e.g. seminars, journal clubs) and with postgraduate students’ supervision. This will be specified in an MOU signed with your supervisor upon arrival.

The appointments are for two years, with possibilities of extension for another year, subject to sufficient progress. A PhD in astronomy and experience with interferometric data and programming is required. 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 by October 1st, 2017. Applications will start to be considered from that date until the positions are filled. The position could start as soon as possible at the beginning of 2018. Inquiries, applications and letters of recommendation should be sent to: [email protected]

“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.”