Internal Research Fellow (PostDoc) in Onboard Data Handling for Cognitive Cloud Computing in Space

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 various countries in Europe and collaborates with numerous 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's activities encompass Earth observation, human spaceflight, exploration, and satellite navigation, among others. ESA is committed to fostering innovation and advancing scientific knowledge through its various programs and initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Internal Research Fellow position at ESA's Φ-lab in Frascati, Italy, focuses on advancing research in Cognitive Cloud Computing in Space (3CS). This role involves integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and novel computing paradigms to enhance satellite systems' intelligence and operational capabilities. The fellow will work closely with interdisciplinary teams to develop innovative Earth Observation (EO) solutions that leverage disruptive technologies such as AI, machine learning, and edge computing. The position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of efficient data handling processing chains for EO missions, addressing global challenges through cutting-edge research. The fellow will also engage in mentoring activities, outreach, and collaboration with various stakeholders in the EO ecosystem, promoting the uptake of new techniques and solutions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The successful candidate will undertake a range of advanced research activities, including:

• Designing and prototyping onboard data handling processing architectures for 3CS-enabled EO missions, focusing on hardware and software solutions for AI model inference and data fusion.
• Investigating the standardization of hardware-software interfaces for seamless integration of emerging hardware accelerators into existing space processing pipelines.
• Developing edge AI models with an emphasis on hardware-aware efficiency and compliance with mission-critical systems.
• Exploring disruptive computing paradigms for onboard data processing, including photonic and neuromorphic computing.
• Conducting research on cyber security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security measures to ensure the robustness of onboard AI models against data manipulation and adversarial attacks.
• Collaborating with ESA's internal teams and external partners to promote innovative EO solutions and contribute to the Φ-lab's strategy and outreach activities.
• Publishing research outcomes in high-impact journals and maintaining a continuous dialogue with the scientific community.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a PhD in a relevant technical or scientific discipline, such as electronics, embedded systems, computer science, AI, machine learning, aerospace engineering, Earth system science, or climate. Preference will be given to those who have completed their PhD within the last five years. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate experience with hardware benchmarking for edge computing, knowledge of computing architectures, and familiarity with onboard AI concepts. Strong programming skills in languages such as Python and experience with deep learning frameworks like TensorFlow or PyTorch are essential. Candidates should also exhibit a natural curiosity and a passion for research, along with the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multicultural environment.

Educational Background:
A PhD in a relevant field is required for this position. The ideal candidate should have a thesis subject that aligns with the tasks outlined in the job description, focusing on areas such as AI, machine learning, or space systems. Candidates nearing completion of their PhD may also be considered, provided they can demonstrate relevant research experience and a strong publication record.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a solid background in research, particularly in areas related to edge computing and AI. Experience with hardware benchmarking, data processing chains, and knowledge of onboard AI systems is crucial. Candidates should have a proven ability to conduct research autonomously and possess a breadth of exposure from past research activities. Familiarity with disruptive computing paradigms and the ability to think creatively about new research avenues will be highly valued.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is one of the working languages of ESA. Knowledge of French is also required, and proficiency in another language from a Member State would be considered an asset. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in a multicultural environment and share knowledge with colleagues across different organizational units.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role based in Frascati, Italy, and is open to nationals from ESA member states and cooperating states. The application process requires candidates to submit a CV, a motivation letter, and a research proposal of no more than five pages. The proposal should outline the main research questions, methodology, and potential benefits of the research at the application level. The deadline for applications is 3 June 2026 at 23:59 CET/CEST. ESA is committed to diversity and inclusiveness in its workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates.