Research Scientist at NRF National Research Foundation

About the position

Postion Summary:
iThemba LABS seeks to employ a Research Scientist at the Tandem and Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (TAMS) Laboratory in Johannesburg. The incumbent will be responsible for the implementation of research projects with a focus on low-energy nuclear astrophysics and gamma-ray spectroscopy in line with the iThemba LABS Long Range Plan for the Department.

The TAMS Laboratory employs various experimental instruments to study both fundamental and applied nuclear physics. The incoming Research Scientist will be required to assist the department with administration and coordinate the maintenance and upgrading of the research facilities/infrastructure, mentor junior researchers and supervise student projects.

Key Responsibilities:

• Initiate and lead own research, utilizing the facilities at TAMS
• Provide support for all experiments utilizing facilities at TAMS
• Act as liaison for national and international collaborations
• Supply input for long- and short-term research objectives of the department and outside collaborations
• Train MSc and PhD students
• Study articles in journals, attend conferences and workshops and consult other advanced information sources to keep abreast with the latest developments in low-energy nuclear astrophysics and gamma-ray spectroscopy.

Key Requirements:
Qualification:

• Ph.D. in experimental nuclear physics or related qualification

Experience:

• Minimum 3 years post-doctoral experience in experimental nuclear physics at the time of taking up the position
• Experience in performing gamma-ray spectroscopy measurements
• Experience in running experimental facilities/instruments
• Experience in performing high quality scientific measurements
• Experience in co-supervising post-graduate students' projects

Knowledge:

• Experimental design and setup, analysis and interpretation, and publication
• Demonstrable ability to perform calculations and data analysis with various sophisticated computer programs relevant to research and its applications
• Demonstrable ability to plan and manage scientific research projects
• Ability to work in a culturally diverse team of research scientists
• Proven workplace, institutional, collegial, and universal professionalism

The NRF website provides more details on the initiatives and activities Applicants should submit a comprehensive CV by registering and apply online through the NRF Recruitment and Selection Portal. Applications should be accompanied by a letter of motivation indicating the applicants suitability for the position.

The names and contact details of at least three referees should be provided.

Desired Skills:

• Experimental design and setup
• Data Analysis

About The Employer:

The National Research Foundation (NRF) supports and promotes research and human capital development through funding, the provision of National Research Facilities and science outreach platforms and programmes to the broader community in all fields of science and technology, including natural sciences, engineering, social sciences and humanities.

iThemba LABS is Africa's leading research facility for accelerator-based science that is committed to advance knowledge, transform lives and inspire the nation. We do this through probing fundamental aspects of nuclear structure, investigating the origins of matter, and advancing humanity's understanding of condensed matter. We have a direct societal impact through the provision of radioisotopes for the health sector and isotope analysis for the environmental sector.