Intern in the Cybersecurity Engineering and Software Engineering domains

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 across various locations in Europe. 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 in multiple countries and is involved in numerous international collaborations, focusing on areas such as Earth observation, human spaceflight, and satellite navigation.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position in the Cybersecurity Engineering and Software Engineering domains is designed for university students, preferably at the master's level, who are interested in gaining practical experience in the field of space operations. Interns will have the opportunity to work on various topics related to data foundations, artificial intelligence, and digital twins, contributing to the development of innovative solutions that enhance mission operations. The role involves exploring the Agency's data structures, implementing AI algorithms, and developing simulation models to support the operational needs of spacecraft and ground systems. Interns will be expected to engage in hands-on projects that require both technical skills and creative problem-solving abilities, ultimately contributing to the advancement of ESA's mission.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for selecting and focusing on specific topics within the Cybersecurity and Software Engineering domains. This includes tasks such as:

• Analyzing and managing data generated by spacecraft and ground systems, ensuring data quality and compliance.
• Designing and implementing software solutions to enhance mission operations, including AI applications for automation and data correlation.
• Developing simulation models and digital twins to predict spacecraft behavior and support operational testing.
• Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to address real-world challenges in space operations.
• Participating in the verification and validation processes of AI algorithms and ensuring their operational readiness.
• Engaging in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be university students enrolled in a relevant field of study, such as computer science, software engineering, or cybersecurity. A strong foundation in programming languages and software development practices is essential. Familiarity with space-related protocols and technologies, such as the DTN bundle protocol, is advantageous. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a proactive approach to learning and problem-solving, with the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate should be pursuing a master's degree in a relevant discipline, such as computer science, software engineering, cybersecurity, or a related field. Candidates must provide proof of enrollment at their university for the entire duration of the internship, ensuring that they can fully commit to the responsibilities of the role.

Experience:
While prior professional experience is not mandatory, any relevant internships, projects, or coursework that demonstrate a candidate's skills in software development, cybersecurity, or systems engineering will be considered an asset. Candidates should be able to showcase their technical abilities and any practical applications of their knowledge in real-world scenarios.

Languages:
The working languages of the Agency are English and French. A good command of one of these languages is required, while knowledge of another ESA Member State language is considered an asset. This multilingual environment emphasizes the importance of effective communication and collaboration among diverse teams.

Additional Notes:
This internship is a full-time position based in Darmstadt, Germany, and is open to nationals of specific ESA member states. The internship duration and specific terms will be discussed during the recruitment process. 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 also provides support for individuals with disabilities during the recruitment process and in the workplace.