RATT Postgraduate Scholarships and Research Projects 2027 | MSc & PhD Opportunities at Rhodes University

About the Institution

The Centre for Radio Astronomy Techniques & Technologies (RATT) is a leading research center within the Department of Physics & Electronics at Rhodes University, South Africa. RATT focuses on advancing radio astronomy, astrophysics, data science, and engineering technologies that support major international scientific initiatives such as the Square Kilometre Array (SKA). The centre brings together researchers, engineers, and students to work on cutting-edge scientific and technical challenges.

Rhodes University is one of South Africa's premier institutions of higher learning, recognized globally for excellence in research, innovation, and postgraduate education.

About the Programme

RATT is offering Postgraduate Scholarships and Research Projects for 2027. The programme includes both science-oriented and technology-oriented research projects. Selected candidates may receive financial support through RATT or through SARAO freestanding bursaries, depending on project eligibility.

The programme provides opportunities for postgraduate students to conduct advanced research in radio astronomy and related disciplines while collaborating with internationally recognized scientists and research groups.

Programme Highlights

Eligibility Criteria

Nationality

Applications are open only to:

• Citizens of South Africa.
• Citizens of SKA Africa partner countries.

Educational Qualifications

Candidates with substantial research experience may be considered even if they do not strictly meet the qualification requirements.

Research Areas

The programme offers projects in:

• Radio Astronomy
• Astrophysics
• Signal Processing
• Data Science
• Computational Science
• Instrumentation
• Scientific Computing
• Engineering Technologies

Application Process

Step 1: Verify Eligibility

Candidates should review the NRF funding guidelines and ensure that their qualifications meet the SAQA requirements.

Step 2: Contact the Supervisor

Applicants must email the relevant project supervisor with:

• Motivation Letter
• Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Academic Transcripts
• Supporting Documents

Step 3: Submit Online Application

After obtaining supervisor approval, candidates should apply through the NRF Connect Portal and choose:

• SARAO Masters
• SARAO Doctoral

Step 4: Inform the Supervisor

After submission, applicants should send their application reference number to the selected supervisor.

Benefits

• Financial support through scholarships or bursaries.
• Opportunity to work on internationally significant projects.
• Access to world-class research facilities.
• Collaboration with leading researchers and scientists.
• Exposure to advanced technologies in astronomy and data science.
• Career opportunities in academia, research, and industry.

Important Date

How to Apply

Interested candidates should contact the relevant project supervisors and complete their application through the NRF Connect portal after obtaining approval.

Official Website

https://ratt.center