Internal Research Fellow (PostDoc) in Solutions for Space System Cyber Security Resilience

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 operates across multiple countries in Europe and collaborates with various international partners. ESA'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. The agency is involved in various space missions, including Earth observation, human spaceflight, and planetary exploration, and is committed to advancing space science and technology.

Job Overview:
The Internal Research Fellow (PostDoc) position focuses on conducting advanced research in the field of cyber security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security resilience for space systems. The selected candidate will join the Ground Segment System and Cybersecurity Engineering Section at the European Space Operations Centre (ESOC) in Darmstadt, Germany. This role involves working closely with various stakeholders within ESA, including the Security Office, to enhance the cyber resilience of space systems. The fellow will engage in independent research and development, targeting key areas such as secure software engineering, digital system security, advanced security emulation, tailored security monitoring, applied forensics, and crypto key management. The position aims to develop innovative solutions that can be utilized by ESA and the broader European community, addressing the increasing challenges posed by cyber threats in the space domain. The fellow will also contribute to ongoing R&D projects and collaborate with academic partners to promote the integration of novel research into ESA programs.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Internal Research Fellow include: 1) Conducting independent research in the field of cyber security resilience for space systems, focusing on areas such as secure software engineering, digital system security, advanced security emulation, tailored security monitoring, applied forensics, and crypto key management. 2) Collaborating with experts within ESA and engaging with academic partners to accelerate the integration of research findings into ESA programs. 3) Developing and validating innovative solutions to enhance the cyber resilience of space systems, including vulnerability detection and management, threat modeling, and forensic investigation techniques. 4) Contributing to the development of a Cyber R&D roadmap and promoting advancements in cyber security within ESA. 5) Participating in the design and execution of cyber exercises and technology demonstrations. 6) Preparing research proposals and reports, and presenting findings to stakeholders. 7) Engaging in continuous learning and staying updated on emerging trends and technologies in the field of cyber security.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a PhD in cyber security, computer science, or engineering, preferably obtained within the last five years. They should demonstrate proficiency in at least one major programming language (e.g., Java, C/C++/C#, Python) and have experience with the Linux operating system and virtualized environments. A strong background in system and software security engineering, security risk analysis, cryptography, and secure communication protocols is highly desirable. Additionally, candidates should exhibit natural curiosity, a passion for research, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multi-cultural environment. Good interpersonal and communication skills are essential, as well as the ability to contextualize specialized research areas and assess their relevance to other domains.

Educational Background:
The position requires candidates to have recently completed or be close to completing a PhD in cyber security, computer science, or engineering. Preference will be given to candidates who have obtained their PhD within the last five years, ensuring that the selected fellow is well-versed in the latest developments and methodologies in the field.

Experience:
Candidates should have a strong background in research, with a proven track record of publications and the ability to conduct research autonomously. Experience in project-based environments, particularly in relation to EU, ESA, or industry projects, is considered an asset. Familiarity with memory-safe programming languages and experience in areas such as system and software security engineering, security risk analysis, and modern secure development lifecycle processes will be advantageous.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, as it is one of the working languages of ESA. Knowledge of French is also required, and familiarity with another language from an ESA Member State would be considered an asset. This linguistic capability is essential for effective communication within the agency and with international partners.

Additional Notes:
The position is a full-time contract as an Internal Research Fellow, with a focus on research and development in the field of cyber security for space systems. The successful candidate will be expected to prepare a research proposal of no more than five pages, which should be submitted along with their CV and motivation letter. The recruitment process may involve selection tests, and successful candidates will undergo basic screening before appointment. ESA is committed to diversity and inclusiveness, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, beliefs, age, disability, or other characteristics. The agency values diversity and aims to create an inclusive working environment.