NMISA Radioactivity Standards Internships 2026: Gain Practical Experience in Cape Town

The National Metrology Institute of South Africa (NMISA) is offering a 24-month internship in its Radioactivity Standards section. This opportunity is for graduates with a BSc Honours Degree in Radiochemistry, Nuclear Physics, or Physics who want to gain practical training in radioactivity measurement standards.

Application Closing Date: 16 November 2026
Location: Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
Programme Duration: 24 months
Stipend: R7 478 – R8 878 per month
Minimum Qualification: BSc Honours Degree (NQF Level 8)
Opportunity Type: Internship

About the NMISA Radioactivity Standards Internship

This internship programme is designed to provide graduates with valuable hands-on experience in the development and maintenance of radioactivity measurement standards. You will work within an accredited laboratory environment, supporting the Biomedical Science unit’s Radioactivity Standards section. The goal is to equip interns with practical skills in measurement capabilities, laboratory services, and related technical work.

Successful candidates will assist in the dissemination of measurement standards and contribute to the development of new measurement capabilities. This role involves client measurements and analysis, generating certificates, and checking measurement results. You will also be involved in developing and reviewing measurement procedures and maintaining detailed equipment and measurement records.

About NMISA

The National Metrology Institute of South Africa (NMISA) is a national metrology institute responsible for establishing and maintaining measurement standards in South Africa. It operates under the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition. NMISA plays a crucial role in ensuring accurate and reliable measurements across various scientific and industrial sectors.

NMISA provides calibration services, research and development, and training in metrology. The institute is committed to supporting South African industry and science through its expertise in measurement science.

Available Internship Opportunities

This internship focuses on the Radioactivity Standards section within the Biomedical Science unit. The specific role involves practical training and support for the following areas:

• Development and maintenance of radioactivity measurement standards.
• Dissemination of measurement standards to clients.
• Development of new measurement capabilities.
• Client measurements and analysis.
• Generating measurement certificates.
• Checking and validating measurement results.
• Developing and reviewing measurement procedures.
• Maintaining laboratory equipment and measurement records.

What the Internship Offers

This 24-month internship offers a significant opportunity for professional growth and practical skill development. Interns will gain experience working in an accredited laboratory, adhering to strict quality management systems. You will receive a monthly stipend, with amounts ranging from R7 478 to R8 878, depending on your qualification level.

The programme provides exposure to essential scientific techniques such as gamma-ray spectrometry, liquid scintillation analysis, and alpha spectrometry. You will also learn about radiochemical separation techniques and quality systems like Good Laboratory Practice. This experience is invaluable for anyone looking to build a career in radioactivity standards and measurement.

Programme Duration and Location

The NMISA Radioactivity Standards Internship Programme runs for a duration of 24 months. The internship will be based in Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa. This location offers a vibrant scientific and research environment.

Minimum Requirements

To be considered for this internship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Hold a BSc Honours Degree at NQF Level 8.
• Possess a qualification focused on Radiochemistry, Nuclear Physics, or Physics.
• Have knowledge of radiation detection instruments.
• Demonstrate a basic understanding of radioactive decay processes.
• Show a basic understanding of how radiation interacts with matter.
• Have a basic understanding of radiation protection principles.
• Possess basic knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Have mathematical and statistical knowledge.
• Exhibit good communication skills.
• Possess good report writing skills.

Added Advantages

While not mandatory, the following knowledge and experience will be beneficial for your application:

• Experience with Gamma-ray spectrometry.
• Familiarity with Liquid scintillation analysis.
• Knowledge of Alpha spectrometry.
• Understanding of Radiochemical separation techniques.
• Experience with Quality systems.
• Familiarity with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP).

Previous Internship Restriction

Please note that applicants who have previously participated in an internship programme will not be considered for this opportunity.

Skills and Personal Attributes

The ideal candidate for this internship should possess a range of personal attributes that will contribute to their success:

• Be self-motivated and able to work independently.
• Be detail-oriented and meticulous in their work.
• Be dependable and reliable.
• Show a strong willingness to learn and embrace new challenges.
• Have the ability to multitask effectively.
• Be comfortable working as part of a team.
• Be able to meet strict deadlines.
• Demonstrate good organisational skills and time management.
• Be able to follow instructions and procedures accurately.
• Exhibit honesty, ethical conduct, and professionalism.
• Be cooperative and maintain a professional attitude.

Who Should Apply?

This internship is ideally suited for recent graduates who have completed a BSc Honours Degree in Radiochemistry, Nuclear Physics, or Physics. If you are a driven individual looking to gain practical experience in radioactivity measurement standards within a reputable national institute, this opportunity is for you. It is perfect for those who are meticulous, eager to learn, and ready to contribute to scientific research and laboratory operations.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and attach three separate documents in PDF format for their application. These documents should be named according to the specified format:

• CV: Your updated curriculum vitae. Ensure your full name, cellphone number, and email address are clearly visible at the top.
• Certified copy of ID: A certified copy of your South African identity document.
• Qualification certificate(s): Certified copies of your degree or relevant qualification certificates.

Important: All documents must be in PDF format. Word documents, JPEG files, or links to cloud storage (Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox) will not be accepted. The CV must be a proper PDF created from a document, not a scanned image.

Required File Naming Format

Each PDF document must be named using your surname, first name, and the document type. For example:

• Mokoena Thandi – CV.pdf
• Mokoena Thandi – ID.pdf
• Mokoena Thandi – Qualifications.pdf

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted via email to Careers1@nmisa.org. Please ensure that your email has the exact subject line: INTERNSHIP: RADIOACTIVITY STANDARDS.

Only one application per person should be submitted. Applicants are advised to read all requirements carefully and prepare all necessary documents before submitting their application. Ensure that all personal details are correct and that the documents are in the specified PDF format.

Important Notes

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• NMISA reserves the right not to make an appointment.
• Previous participation in an internship will disqualify an applicant.
• Applications must be submitted with the correct email subject line.
• Only correctly submitted PDF documents will be considered.
• Late applications may not be considered.
• NMISA applies the principles of the Employment Equity Act, and preference may be given to previously disadvantaged applicants.

Closing Date

The closing date for the NMISA Radioactivity Standards Internship 2026 is 16 November 2026. Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline to avoid any last-minute issues.

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