Internal Research Fellow (PostDoc) in xAI and Decision Intelligence for EO Resilience applications

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 encompass 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 satellite navigation, and collaborates with numerous international partners to advance space science and technology.

Job Overview:
The position of Internal Research Fellow in xAI and Decision Intelligence for EO Resilience applications is designed for individuals who are passionate about leveraging Earth observation (EO) data and explainable artificial intelligence (xAI) to enhance decision-making processes in security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security and resilience contexts. The successful candidate will work within the ESA Φ-lab, which aims to foster innovation in Earth observation by integrating cutting-edge technologies such as AI, machine learning, and quantum computing. The role involves conducting advanced research to develop frameworks and solutions that utilize EO data for threat detection, situational awareness, and crisis management. The fellow will engage in interdisciplinary collaboration, mentor junior researchers, and contribute to outreach activities, all while focusing on the strategic objectives of ESA.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Internal Research Fellow will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including: conducting advanced research on innovative resilience and security applications that utilize EO data and xAI; developing methodologies for threat detection and situational awareness using multi-sensor EO data; designing interpretable machine learning architectures for decision support in time-sensitive scenarios; investigating real-time intelligence fusion techniques; creating prototype tools that demonstrate the application of transparent AI in decision-making; engaging with stakeholders across the European space and security ecosystem; publishing research findings in high-impact journals; collaborating with the Φ-lab community and ESA teams to promote new techniques and solutions; and maintaining a continuous dialogue with the scientific community to explore novel EO concepts and workflows.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a PhD in a relevant technical or scientific discipline, such as data science, AI, computer science, machine learning, or Earth system science. Preference will be given to those who have completed their PhD within the last five years. Additionally, applicants should demonstrate sound knowledge of EO, AI, ML, and related technologies, as well as experience with programming languages like Python and deep learning frameworks such as TensorFlow or PyTorch. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential, along with the ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment.

Educational Background:
A PhD in a relevant field is required for this position. The ideal candidate will have a thesis subject that aligns with the tasks outlined in the job description, particularly in areas related to Earth observation, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. Candidates should have a strong academic background and a record of research or publications in their field of expertise.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have recently completed or be close to completing a PhD, with a preference for those who have graduated within the last five years. Experience in conducting independent research, as well as a demonstrated ability to engage with innovative methodologies and technologies, is essential. Candidates should also have a proven track record of collaboration within research teams and the ability to contribute to interdisciplinary projects.

Languages:
Proficiency in English or French is mandatory, as these are the working languages of the Agency. Knowledge of another language from an ESA Member State would be considered an asset. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in a multicultural environment and demonstrate strong interpersonal skills.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an Internal Research Fellow and is a full-time role based at the ESRIN facility in Frascati, Italy. The closing date for applications is 4 March 2026 at 23:59 CET/CEST. The European Space Agency is committed to diversity and inclusiveness in its workforce and encourages 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.