The French South African Institute of Technology (F’SATI) and the Africa Space Innovation Centre (ASIC) at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) are inviting applications for a 12-month Postdoctoral Fellowship in Software Engineering for Space Systems and Services.
The fellowship provides an opportunity for early-career researchers to contribute to innovative research in the growing field of space technology, satellite systems, software engineering, and space-based services.
The successful fellow will conduct research related to software solutions that support space systems, including nanosatellite platforms, ground station technologies, space-weather services, and related data systems.
Application Deadline: Thursday, 20 August 2026
About the Fellowship
The F’SATI and ASIC Postdoctoral Fellowship is designed to support researchers working at the intersection of software engineering and space innovation.
The fellowship aims to strengthen research capacity in advanced space technologies while supporting the development of software-driven solutions for satellite missions and space-related services.
The selected postdoctoral researcher will join the research environment at CPUT Bellville Campus, working alongside researchers involved in space innovation, engineering, and technology development.
Research Focus Areas
The fellowship will focus on software engineering applications for space systems and services.
Research areas may include:
- Nanosatellite systems
- Satellite software development
- Ground station systems
- Space-weather services
- Space data management systems
- Software architectures for space missions
- Data processing and analysis platforms
- Space technology applications
Applicants with research interests related to software development for space environments are encouraged to apply.
Fellowship Objectives
The fellowship seeks to support innovative research that contributes to the advancement of Africa’s space technology capabilities.
The postdoctoral researcher will have the opportunity to:
- Conduct independent research in space software engineering
- Develop new software solutions for space applications
- Contribute to satellite and space-system projects
- Publish research findings
- Collaborate with researchers and engineers
- Support knowledge development within Africa’s space innovation ecosystem
The fellowship provides a platform for researchers to expand their expertise while contributing to emerging space technology initiatives.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants should hold a recent doctoral degree in a relevant discipline.
Eligible academic backgrounds include:
- Software Engineering
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Related fields
Applicants should demonstrate relevant expertise in:
- Software development
- Research methodologies
- Engineering systems
- Data systems
- Space-related technologies or applications
Candidates with experience in developing software solutions for complex technical systems will be strongly considered.
Required Skills and Experience
Successful applicants should have:
- A completed PhD obtained recently
- Research experience in software engineering or related disciplines
- Strong programming and software development skills
- Ability to conduct independent research
- Experience working with technical research projects
- Ability to analyse and communicate research findings
Experience in space systems, satellite technologies, or aerospace-related software development will be an advantage.
About F’SATI and ASIC
The French South African Institute of Technology (F’SATI) is a collaborative initiative focused on advancing engineering education, research, and innovation.
The Africa Space Innovation Centre (ASIC) supports research and development in space technologies and promotes innovation within Africa’s space sector.
Through partnerships and research programmes, these institutions contribute to building expertise in areas such as satellite engineering, space applications, and technology development.
Fellowship Benefits
The selected postdoctoral fellow will receive financial support for the duration of the programme.
Fellowship Details:
Position: Postdoctoral Fellow – Software Engineering for Space Systems and Services
Host Institutions: F’SATI and Africa Space Innovation Centre (ASIC)
University: Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
Location: Bellville Campus, South Africa
Duration: 12 months
Stipend: R250,000
Application Deadline: 20 August 2026
Why Apply?
This fellowship provides an opportunity for researchers interested in combining software engineering, space technology, and innovation.
Africa’s space sector continues to expand, creating demand for researchers who can develop advanced software systems supporting satellite missions, data services, and space applications.
The fellowship offers researchers the opportunity to:
- Advance their academic career
- Gain experience in space technology research
- Work within a specialised research environment
- Contribute to African space innovation
- Develop solutions with real-world applications
For researchers passionate about computer science, engineering, satellite systems, and space innovation, this fellowship offers valuable experience in an emerging field.
Application Process
Interested candidates should prepare their application materials and submit them by email.
Applications should be sent to:
[email protected]
Use the following email subject line:
Postdoctoral Fellowship Application – F’SATI-ASIC
Applicants are advised to consult the official fellowship advertisement for complete application requirements and submission instructions.
