Dr Rosalind Skelton

My current role is to lead NRF-SAAO to achieve its vision to “Explore the Universe for the benefit of all society”. I have overall responsibility for our flagship facility, the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT), which is a collaborative international project, and numerous other telescopes that we own, operate, or host at our observing site near Sutherland in the Northern Cape.

Our telescopes provide South African and international astronomers with a wide range of capabilities to learn about stars, galaxies and other celestial bodies in the optical and near-infrared part of the electromagnetic spectrum. We work closely with facilities that capture data at other wavelengths, such as radio and high-energy gamma rays.

I’m responsible for managing the people and work we do at NRF-SAAO to provide a service to the astronomical community, carry out excellent research, develop high-tech scientific instrumentation, use astronomy to aid development, share the excitement of cutting-edge science and inspire people.

What inspired you to become the leader that you are today?

I am a scientist with a passion for understanding how galaxies formed and evolved over the history of the Universe, and for developing the next generation in STEM fields.

I have been a member of the team of astronomers who have operated SALT for the past eight years. I have taken on more management responsibilities and moved into leadership roles over time as I have grown in my career. I became the Head of Research at NRF-SAAO last year.

I strive to do my best in everything I do. I like to get involved wherever I can make a difference to improve efficiency or influence better outcomes. I enjoy working with people and love working at NRF-SAAO and want it to be a world-class research facility. So, when our previous managing director resigned and someone was needed to steer the organisation until the position was filled, I was excited to take up the challenge.

I am motivated by the huge potential that South Africa has to do excellent astronomical research with incredible facilities right here on our own soil and beautiful clear dark skies that give us a window into the Universe. I’d like to see us make the best possible use of the opportunities we have and make a difference in our society through science, and I’m in an excellent position to lead some of these efforts.

What advice would you give to the next generation of women leaders?

I think it’s important to be self-disciplined and maintain high standards for yourself and those around you, but also to keep a balance in life and stay true to the values that matter to you as an individual. Be less hesitant about taking up opportunities and owning our spaces, and be aware that sometimes we need to create opportunities for ourselves. Be confident in our capabilities and do not give up when we meet the inevitable obstacles.