BRICS Astronomy Project Officer

The South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) is the National Facility for Optical and Infrared Astronomy of the National Research Foundation (NRF). Its headquarters are in Cape Town, while its telescopes are at Sutherland in the semi-arid Northern Cape. Distributed between the two sites, SAAO employs roughly 130 people, many of them scientists and engineers, and is contracted to operate the 10-m Southern African Large Telescope (SALT), on behalf of the international SALT Foundation. SAAO is the premier optical/infrared research facility on the African continent, with global research and outreach collaborations and contributing human capacity development for South Africa.

Position: BRICS Astronomy Project Officer

Business Unit: South Africa Astronomical Observatory (SAAO)

Location: Cape Town, Western Cape

Position Summary

The successful candidate will support the coordination and implementation of BRICS Astronomy and BRICS Intelligent Telescope and Data Network (BITDN) activities. The role will focus on maintaining BRICS Astronomy information management and communication platforms, supporting the implementation of societal impact initiatives, contributing to BRICS Astronomy Working Group activities, and assisting with programme-related communication and stakeholder engagement. The incumbent will work closely with the BRICS Astronomy Coordinator, participating institutions, national and international partners, and relevant stakeholders to support the effective implementation, documentation and communication of BRICS Astronomy programmes and activities.

Key Responsibilities

Developing websites, digital information platforms, learning management systems, or online communication channels.

Maintaining and regularly updating the BRICS Astronomy website and other relevant online platforms.

Maintaining and supporting the administration of the BRICS Astronomy Learning Management System for societal benefit programmes and trainings.

Supporting the effective organisation, management and accessibility of BRICS Astronomy programme information and resources.

Leading and supporting specific programmes aligned with the programme’s societal benefit objectives e.g., implementation of Data Science and Data Analytics societal impact projects.

Drafting accurate minutes and maintaining records of the quarterly South African BRICS Astronomy Steering Committee meetings.

Support the coordinator in the implementation of the BRICS Intelligent Telescope and Data Network (BITDN) Societal benefit programmes.

Contributing articles, programme updates and other content for BRICS Astronomy publications, reports and communication platforms.

Regularly updating BRICS Astronomy communication channels with relevant programme information, opportunities, activities and achievements.

Additional Notes

Project management qualifications/courses

Software development/data science qualifications/courses

Ability to interact with people of different cultures

Experience in science outreach or development or education activities

Experience developing and maintaining websites, digital information platforms, learning management systems, or online communication channels.

International relations, science communication, project management.

Previous experience in international or science policy environments will be an advantage.

Cultural awareness and the ability to work effectively within diverse, multidisciplinary and international teams.

A high level of professionalism, integrity, accountability and attention to detail.

Willingness to learn and engage with emerging scientific and technological developments.

Willingness and ability to travel nationally and internationally, where required.

Qualification

Bachelor’s degree in international relations, political science, science communication, or closely related field.

Experience

A minimum of two years’ relevant work experience in project management or science-related programme implementation.

Experience supporting the implementation and coordination of projects involving multiple stakeholders.

Experience preparing meeting documentation, including agendas, minutes, reports and action-item trackers.

Experience contributing to project reports, articles, newsletters, digital content or other communication materials.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Report writing

Events management

Working in multicultural or international environments

Experience with virtual collaboration tools and digital platforms

Website development and maintenance

Software development/coding

Excellent analytical reasoning, problem solving, time management, and organisational skills.

Closing Date: Friday, 16 Oct 2026

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 applicant's suitability for the position. The names and contact details of at least three referees should be provided.

Recruitment Support

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