Deputy Director: IAU Office of Astronomy for Development

The International Astronomical Union (IAU) and South African National Research Foundation (NRF) established the Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD) in 2011 at the South African Astronomical Observatory (SAAO) in Cape Town, as a key part of the IAU's strategy to use astronomy for sustainable development globally. So far, the OAD has granted over a million Euros to over 200 projects in over 100 countries. The OAD coordinates 11 regional offices globally and has formed 17 partnerships. Current flagships are (i) astronomy for economic development; (ii) astronomy for mental health; (iii) astronomy knowledge and skills for development. All activities of the OAD are coordinated from Cape Town.

The OAD now seeks an inspired and capable Deputy Director to be based in Cape Town, South Africa, who will help continue the realization of the vision “Astronomy for a better world". This position should be filled by a committed and hard-working individual who subscribes to the spirit of the OAD, and who possesses excellent communication skills. The Deputy Director will be based at the OAD in Cape Town and, as with other OAD staff, will be employed under the terms and conditions of the SAAO (a facility of the NRF).

Key role: Besides standing in for the Director as needed, engage the varied stakeholders that allow the OAD to attract collaborators, fellows, volunteers and interns from different fields in order to achieve the developmental goals of the OAD, while remaining closely connected with the professional astronomy community.

Key requirements: PhD in Astronomy/Astrophysics or closely related field; 3 years of postdoctoral or related research work, with relevant international experience; and fluent in English (both written and spoken).

Please visit the OAD website for the full advert.