Intern in Climate Action, Sustainability and Science Department, Applications Section

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 multiple countries and is involved in various projects that address environmental and development agendas through Earth observation and other space technologies.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is situated within the Applications Section of the Earth Observation Programmes at ESA's ESRIN site in Frascati, Italy. The primary focus of this internship is on agricultural monitoring through field boundary analysis. Interns will engage in research and development activities that leverage Earth observation data to create solutions for environmental challenges. The role involves utilizing advanced models to delineate agricultural boundaries from satellite imagery, conducting analyses to derive insights into land use, agricultural practices, and rural development. Interns will also evaluate the potential applications of their findings in yield modeling and compliance monitoring, contributing to broader environmental and agricultural policy objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for exploring agricultural boundary delineation using the Delineate Anything framework, which involves extracting field boundaries from satellite images. They will design and implement analyses to count fields, measure their sizes, and compare structures across different landscapes. Additionally, interns will assess the implications of their findings for downstream applications, including yield modeling and biodiversity studies. They will also be expected to document their research processes and results, collaborate with team members, and present their findings to stakeholders. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to continuous improvement in research methodologies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be university students, preferably at the master's level, and must provide proof of enrollment for the entire duration of the internship. A strong understanding of Earth observation, image analysis, and data processing is highly desirable. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a commitment to the agency's values of diversity, equity, and inclusiveness, and be prepared to engage in a collaborative work environment.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate should be pursuing a degree in a relevant field such as environmental science, geography, agricultural sciences, or a related discipline. A strong academic background that includes coursework in remote sensing, data analysis, and environmental monitoring will be advantageous.

Experience:
While prior experience in Earth observation or related fields is beneficial, it is not mandatory. However, candidates should demonstrate a keen interest in agricultural monitoring and the application of satellite data in environmental research. Interns should be prepared to engage in hands-on research and contribute to ongoing projects within the Applications Section.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is required, and knowledge of French is also necessary. Familiarity with another language from ESA member states is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate within the diverse environment of the agency.

Additional Notes:
This internship is expected to last for six months, providing a valuable opportunity for students to gain practical experience in the field of Earth observation and sustainability. The position is part-time, allowing interns to balance their academic commitments with their internship responsibilities. ESA is committed to providing an inclusive work environment and encourages applications from individuals with disabilities. The agency will provide necessary support to accommodate such individuals during the recruitment process and throughout the internship.