Applications are open for the SARAO Graduate Training Programme 2026, offering recent STEM graduates hands-on experience in radio astronomy, engineering, and data science. Apply by 17 November 2025.
Graduate Training Opportunities for STEM Graduates in South Africa
The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) is inviting applications for its prestigious Graduate-in-Training Programme 2026, designed for recent STEM graduates who are eager to gain hands-on experience and contribute to world-leading scientific and engineering projects in radio astronomy.
This fully structured training programme provides an invaluable opportunity for graduates to bridge the gap between academic theory and professional practice, preparing them for impactful careers in science, engineering, technology, and innovation.
Application Deadline: Monday, 17 November 2025
Programme Start Date: 1 March 2026
About the SARAO Graduate Training Programme
The SARAO Graduate-in-Training Programme offers an immersive, three-year professional development experience for graduates interested in engineering, data science, software development, and project management — all within the exciting context of radio astronomy.
SARAO, a key facility under the National Research Foundation (NRF), plays a central role in South Africa’s participation in major international science projects such as the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) — the world’s largest radio telescope initiative.
Through this programme, participants gain the practical knowledge and experience needed to support, innovate, and advance cutting-edge technologies in the field of astronomy and beyond.
Programme Objectives
The goal of the Graduate-in-Training Programme is to nurture the next generation of engineers, scientists, and technologists who will contribute to South Africa’s growing global presence in radio astronomy and advanced research infrastructure.
Graduates will:
- Apply academic knowledge to real-world projects at SARAO facilities.
- Develop technical and professional competencies through mentorship and on-the-job learning.
- Contribute to national and international scientific projects driving technological innovation.
- Pursue postgraduate studies with SARAO’s financial support (for eligible candidates).
Key Benefits of the Programme
Participants in the SARAO Graduate-in-Training Programme will enjoy a wide range of opportunities and support, including:
1. Mentorship and Guidance
Graduates will work closely with experienced scientists and engineers, gaining insights into advanced research, problem-solving, and professional development.
2. Project-Based Experience
Fellows will participate in SARAO’s large-scale engineering and science projects, including work on radio telescope systems, data processing, and infrastructure development.
3. Technical and Soft Skill Development
Graduates will receive technical training and attend workshops designed to enhance both core engineering competencies and professional communication, teamwork, and leadership skills.
4. Networking Opportunities
Engage with a diverse network of experts, academic partners, and industry collaborators working on national and international projects such as MeerKAT, SKA-Mid, and HartRAO.
5. Postgraduate Support
SARAO provides financial assistance to successful graduates who register for a part-time Master’s degree at a recognized South African university during the three-year training period.
6. Career Pathway
Graduates completing the programme successfully will be well-positioned for employment within SARAO, the broader National Research Foundation network, or related industries in science, engineering, and technology.
Placement Locations
Successful candidates will be placed across the following SARAO sites for the duration of the three-year programme:
- Cape Town (Head Office) – Engineering, software, and project coordination
- Losberg Site (Northern Cape) – Technical and operational work on MeerKAT and SKA infrastructure
- Hartebeesthoek (HartRAO) – Radio astronomy research and instrumentation projects
This geographic spread ensures that graduates gain exposure to both scientific research environments and technical operations in the field.
Eligibility Criteria for SARAO Graduate Training Programme 2026
To qualify for the SARAO Graduate-in-Training Programme 2026, applicants must meet the following academic and professional requirements:
Academic Qualifications
- BEng / BScEng in one of the following:
- Electronics
- Electrical
- Mechanical / Mechatronics
- Civil Engineering
- BEng / BScEng / BSc(Hons) in Computer Science
- B.Tech or B.Eng in Civil Engineering
- MSc in Electronics, Radio Frequency, or Antennas
Additional Requirements
- Must be a recent graduate or final-year student completing studies by December 2025.
- Must be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
- Strong academic performance and a demonstrated interest in science, engineering, and technology.
- Excellent communication and analytical skills.
Selection Process
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited to complete a mandatory online assessment.
- Successful candidates will undergo an interview process with SARAO’s technical and HR teams.
- Final selections will be made based on academic merit, assessment performance, and alignment with SARAO’s project needs.
Programme Duration
- Length: 3 years
- Start Date: 1 March 2026
- End Date: 28 February 2029
During this period, graduates will rotate through different departments and project teams, gaining cross-disciplinary experience in engineering, systems development, and research operations.
How to Apply
Application Process
- Prepare your CV and academic transcripts.
- Write a short motivation letter explaining why you want to join the SARAO Graduate-in-Training Programme.
- Visit the SARAO careers portal to submit your application online:
👉 https://www.sarao.ac.za/careers
Application Deadline:
Monday, 17 November 2025
Important Note:
Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.
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About SARAO
The South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO) is a national facility managed by the National Research Foundation (NRF). It is responsible for leading South Africa’s radio astronomy initiatives, including the design, construction, and operation of major research instruments such as the MeerKAT Telescope and HartRAO, and for coordinating the country’s participation in the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project.
SARAO’s mission is to advance scientific discovery, technological innovation, and human capacity development in Africa’s knowledge economy.
Meta Description
Applications are open for the SARAO Graduate-in-Training Programme 2026, offering recent STEM graduates hands-on experience in radio astronomy, engineering, and data science. Apply by 17 November 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the SARAO Graduate-in-Training Programme?
It’s a 3-year structured training programme that provides recent graduates with practical experience in engineering, science, and radio astronomy.
2. Who is eligible to apply?
Recent graduates or final-year students in engineering, computer science, or related STEM fields from South African universities.
3. Is this a paid programme?
Yes, participants receive financial support, including mentorship, training, and the opportunity to pursue a part-time Master’s degree.
4. Where will I be based if selected?
Placements will be at SARAO’s Cape Town, Losberg (Northern Cape), and HartRAO offices.
5. Will SARAO help with further studies?
Yes, SARAO will financially support graduates who enroll for a part-time Master’s degree during the programme.
6. When is the deadline to apply?
Applications close on Monday, 17 November 2025.
7. Where can I apply?
Submit your application through the official SARAO careers page:
https://www.sarao.ac.za/careers
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