Applications are now open for the 2027 NRF/SARAO Graduate In-Training Programme, an initiative aimed at giving recent graduates practical experience in their areas of study, particularly within radio astronomy and related disciplines.

The programme is intended to connect academic learning with practical workplace application through hands-on training, mentorship and exposure to advanced projects.

Participants may gain experience in several areas of radio astronomy and related fields, including engineering, data science, software development and project management. The training is designed to build valuable skills and professional experience that can support career progression in industry or academia.

The programme is open to South African citizens who have completed, or are in the final year of, studies in eligible disciplines.

Eligible qualifications include BSc, BSc Eng, B-Tech or Advanced Diploma qualifications in Software, Computer Science and Data; B.Eng or BSc Eng in Mechanical or Mechatronic Engineering; B.Eng or B-Tech Eng in Electrical or Electronic Engineering; and B.Eng in Civil Engineering.

Applicants with an Honours Degree in Quantity Surveying or Construction Management are also eligible. Other qualifying Honours degrees include Cybersecurity, Information Security, Computer Science, Information Systems and Computer Engineering.

Successful participants will benefit from mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals, who will provide insights and support throughout the training period.

The programme will also involve graduates in SARAO’s ongoing projects, giving them opportunities to apply their academic knowledge while contributing to significant initiatives. Participants will further have opportunities to strengthen their technical and soft skills through workshops, seminars and practical activities.

Networking is another component of the programme, with graduates expected to interact with experts, peers and industry leaders as they build professional connections. The initiative also provides a potential pathway to employment within SARAO or other organisations working in engineering, science, technology, radio astronomy and related technologies.

As part of the selection process, shortlisted candidates will be required to complete a mandatory online assessment.

Successful graduates will be placed for three years at SARAO offices in Cape Town, Western Cape; the Karoo Support Base in Klerefontein, Northern Cape; and the Hartebeesthoek site in Gauteng. The placements are scheduled to begin on March 1, 2027.

SARAO will also provide financial assistance to successful graduates who enrol for a part-time Master’s degree at a South African university while participating in the graduate programme.

Applications for the programme close on September 21, 2026.

Enquiries can be directed to SARAO People and Culture via gitrecruitment@sarao.ac.za.

Interested applicants can obtain additional information through the official NRF/SARAO Graduate In-Training Programme webpage.

Official NRF/SARAO Graduate Training Opportunities webpage

Source: Opportunities for Africans