Applications for the  2025-26 Basic Training Programme are now open!

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Training Programme

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DARA currently runs a basic training programme in radio astronomy in Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Namibia, Zambia and South Africa.

 

Each year, in each country, up to ten graduates in physics (current/recent Honours students in South Africa) or another relevant discipline undergo basic training in radio astronomy, delivered in four intensive, two- week units. These cover: astrophysics; technical training in using a radio telescope; radio astronomy observation; and data reduction and analysis. Training is delivered by radio astronomy experts from the project’s UK and South Africa partners. Trainees also receive a week of computer training in the use of Linux and python from the Centre for High Performance Computing in South Africa. These computing skills underpin many areas of research and commercial activity.​ Additional training in the commercial opportunities afforded by knowledge of radio astronomy techniques will be provided by experienced entrepreneurs from the satellite communications business.
 

On completion trainees will receive a certification of completion. Trainees will then be in a position to apply for advanced programme  training places in radio astronomy at Masters or PhD level, or use their new skills to aid the development of related high tech industries in the African partner countries.

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Eligibility

 

The programme is open to any suitably qualified person, who is a citizen of the countries listed above, who wants to undertake the training or to be re-trained in astronomy. No prior experience of astrophysics is required. Applicants would normally be expected to be graduates in physics or a related subject. Applicants from South Africa should be current/recent Honours students from an HDI. Please see the relevant brochure, linked below, for exact training dates and details of the programme in your country.​

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Application deadline - 21st May 2025 @ 23:59 (BST)

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How to Apply

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You can apply online here, please make sure you have the following documents ready before you begin your application:

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• Degree certificate and transcripts

• Curriculum vitae (CV) 

• Optional: letter granting leave - if you will be employed, or enrolled at a University, during the DARA Training period

• Optional: Photo of passport ID page - if you have one.

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