Intern in the Commercial Partnerships Department - AI and Robotics - Space for 5G/6G

Intern in the Commercial Partnerships Department - AI and Robotics - Space for 5G/6G

European Space Agency (ESA)

November 13, 2026December 1, 2026HarwellUnited Kingdom
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The European Space Agency (ESA) is an intergovernmental organization dedicated to the exploration of space. Established in 1975, ESA has grown to include 22 member states and employs over 2,200 staff members. The agency's mission is to shape the development of Europe's space capability and ensure that investment in space continues to deliver benefits to the citizens of Europe and the world. ESA operates across various domains, including Earth observation, human spaceflight, and telecommunications, and is involved in numerous international collaborations to advance space science and technology.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position in the Commercial Partnerships Department focuses on AI and Robotics within the context of the Space for 5G/6G initiative. This strategic program aims to enhance Europe's digital transformation by integrating satellite and terrestrial communication networks. As an intern, you will be immersed in a dynamic and multidisciplinary environment at ESA's European Centre for Space Applications and Telecommunications (ECSAT) in Harwell, UK. You will engage with experts in satellite communications, artificial intelligence, robotics, and emerging digital technologies, contributing to innovative projects that explore the convergence of these fields. The internship offers a unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge technologies that are expected to revolutionize communication and connectivity across various industries, including telemedicine, autonomous vehicles, and smart mobility.

Duties and Responsibilities:
As an intern, your responsibilities will include supporting technical studies on future communication network architectures, services, and applications. You will develop and evaluate AI models for communication systems and network management, experiment with mixed reality technologies, robotics, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) as part of use-case development. Additionally, you will assist in the preparation, execution, and analysis of trials and technology demonstrations, contribute to the development and operation of the AI Hub and the 5G/6G Hub, and support workshops and engagement activities involving industry and academic partners. You will also have the flexibility to define and pursue your own research project within the team's areas of activity, gaining practical experience in satellite-enabled connectivity, future networks, and AI.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be university students, preferably in their final or second-to-last year of a Master's level course. It is essential to prove enrollment at a university for the entire duration of the internship. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are necessary, along with the ability to work in a multicultural environment, both independently and as part of a team. A good knowledge of English or French is required, and knowledge of another ESA Member State language is considered an asset. Familiarity with satellite and terrestrial communication networks, AI/ML applications, immersive technologies, programming in Python, and conducting technical research projects is advantageous.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this internship includes being a university student, ideally in the final or penultimate year of a Master's program. Candidates must demonstrate their enrollment at a university for the entire duration of the internship, ensuring they have the necessary academic foundation to contribute effectively to the projects and tasks assigned during the internship.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a background in relevant fields, such as satellite communications, AI, robotics, or digital technologies. Previous experience working in international teams and conducting technical research projects is highly desirable. Candidates should also have experience with programming and software development, particularly in Python, and familiarity with AI and data analysis frameworks.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English, with French also being a working language of the Agency. A good command of either language is required, while knowledge of another ESA Member State language is considered an asset, enhancing communication and collaboration within the diverse team.

Additional Notes:
This internship is specifically targeted at UK citizens, students enrolled in a UK university, or those with pre-settled status in the UK. The closing date for applications is 30 November 2026 at 23:59 CET/CEST. The internship is a full-time position, and candidates must be eligible to access information and technology subject to European or US export control regulations. ESA is committed to diversity and inclusiveness, welcoming applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious beliefs, age, disability, or other characteristics. The agency values diversity and seeks to accommodate individuals with disabilities by providing necessary support in the workplace.
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