Website Synchrotron Techniques for African Research & Technology (RESTART)
A Post Doctoral Position for an African Trainee Accelerator Scientist (TAS) is available hosted at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) and funded within the Africa-UK Physics Partnership (AUPP) Collaborative Projects funding opportunity entitled REsilience through Synchrotron Techniques for African Research & Technology (RESTART). The context is to boost African skills towards the realisation of the first African Light Source (AFLS).
The TAS is expected to be part of a cohort of emerging scientists who will play an important role in the AFLS. The TAS will be tasked with learning all aspects of an advanced light source (technical design, injector, storage ring, beamlines, infrastructure safety management and maintenance). The TAS will compile a report of their learning activities and will provide valuable input in the technical design of the future African light source.
While in Johannesburg, the TAS will be supervised by Prof Simon Connell of UJ. The TAS will travel to the European Synchrotron Research Facility (ESRF) to undergo hands-on training in synchrotron accelerator science and participate where feasible in the operation of the facility.
TAS visits to ESRF will coordinate with the dark period at the Diamond Light Source (DLS) for additional visits there, allowing the TAS to experience the upgrade process and associated logistics. In these periods the TAS will be supervised by Dr Edward Mitchell of the ESRF.
Qualification:
• PhD, Engineering or Physics
Experience and Knowledge:
• An aptitude for Instrumentation
• An aptitude for Readout systems and Electronics
• An aptitude for Computer coding.
Applications:
• Applicants should submit a comprehensive CV, including a publication list. Applications should be accompanied by a letter of motivation indicating the applicant’s suitability for the position. The names and contact details of at least three referees should be provided. The application is by e-mail to the address below.
Closing Date: 30 April 2026
• The position offers a challenging career and competitive remuneration package which is commensurate with qualifications and experience. All parties are committed to employment equity. The position duration is for two years. As the position relates to the AfLS, the applicant should be an African or prepared to reside in Africa to support the AFLS. The successful candidate should be ready to proceed promptly.
Enquiries:
• Prof SH Connell, email: shconnell@uj.ac.za