Apply for this all-expenses paid trip to Antarctica

The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) is busy putting together a team to head to Antarctica for the summer and it is looking for three volunteers to join the expedition.

What’s even better news is that the trip, which takes place from approximately the beginning of December 2019 till the end of February 2020, is free.

According to SANSA, ‘Any individual interested in an experience of a life-time, with some scientific/engineering background may apply for this opportunity.’

For those selected, all expenses will be covered from Cape Town to Antartica and back, however, SANSA states that the volunteers will not be paid for their time.

The space agency stresses that applicants need to be ‘physically fit and mentally strong’ as the ‘take-over occurs under harsh conditions’ with the need for hard physical labour.

The shortlisted applicants will undergo a full medical screening, including a dental examination at SANSA’s cost.

A background check will be undertaken, which will include credit, qualification and citizenship checks and a ‘competency assessment and psychometric testing’ may also take place.

How to apply

To be considered for the expedition, you’ll need to e-mail [email protected] and cc [email protected] with the following:

• A detailed CV (indicating in the subject line of your email Antarctica Take-over 2019/20);
• A cover letter summarising your reasons for applying;
• If you are a SANSA student – a letter from your supervisor/s, giving you permission to go as we cannot jeopardize your studies;
• If you are a SANSA staff member – permission from your line manager.

The closing date for applicants is 25 September 2019.

‘Communication will only be conducted with short-listed candidates,’ SANSA said on its website.

If applicants have not heard from us within four weeks of the closing date, they must assume that their applications were unsuccessful.’

Image credit: Andreas Kambanis