Internal Research Fellow (PostDoc) in Onboard Agentic AI for Autonomous EO Constellations

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 in various domains, including Earth observation, human spaceflight, exploration, and telecommunications, and collaborates with numerous international partners to advance space science and technology.

Job Overview:
The Internal Research Fellow (PostDoc) position at ESA's Φ-lab in Frascati, Italy, focuses on advancing intelligent, agentic AI-driven mission planning for Earth Observation (EO) satellite constellations. The role involves designing and implementing onboard AI systems that enable autonomous management of mission planning, data acquisition, and satellite tasking in real-time. The research aims to evolve mission planning from static scheduling to an adaptive, intelligence-driven process executed directly on board satellites. This includes developing systems capable of continuously monitoring payload data, platform status, and environmental conditions, autonomously updating mission plans, and coordinating multi-satellite constellations through onboard intelligence. The position offers a unique opportunity to work in a stimulating multinational and interdisciplinary environment, contributing to innovative solutions that address global challenges while aligning with ESA's strategic goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Internal Research Fellow include conducting advanced research activities that explore and expand the use of disruptive and transformative innovations such as AI, machine learning, quantum computing, and edge computing. The fellow will develop new frameworks and solutions for autonomous mission planning, engage in rapid prototyping activities, and contribute to the development of novel methods and technology implementations. Responsibilities also include publishing research outcomes in high-impact journals, collaborating with the Φ-lab community and ESA internal teams, mentoring members of the research network, and maintaining a continuous dialogue with the scientific community. The fellow will design and develop onboard AI systems that autonomously optimize EO systems tasking and data collection, ensuring that satellites can adapt to dynamic environmental changes and urgent events.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a PhD in a relevant technical or scientific discipline, such as data science, AI, computer science, machine learning, aerospace engineering, Earth system science, or climate science. Preference will be given to those who have completed their PhD within the last five years. Additionally, candidates should have sound knowledge of themes related to EO, satellite systems, mission planning, ML, agentic AI, and edge computing. Experience with programming languages such as Python and deep learning frameworks like TensorFlow or PyTorch is essential. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are required, along with the ability to work in a multicultural environment both independently and as part of a team.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a recently completed or near-completion PhD in a related field. The candidate's thesis should be relevant to the tasks outlined in the job description, demonstrating a strong foundation in the principles and applications of AI and machine learning in the context of Earth observation and satellite systems.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a strong research/publication record and the ability to conduct research autonomously. Candidates should have a breadth of exposure from past or current research activities, showcasing their capability to gather and share relevant information effectively. Experience in innovative methodologies and technologies related to EO and AI is highly desirable.

Languages:
The working languages of ESA are English and French, and a good knowledge of one of these languages is mandatory. Knowledge of another Member State language would be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to collaborate within the diverse ESA environment.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an Internal Research Fellow and is full-time. The contract duration and specific compensation details will be discussed during the recruitment process. ESA is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusiveness, welcoming applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious beliefs, age, disability, or other characteristics. The agency values diversity and seeks to accommodate individuals with disabilities by providing necessary support in the workplace.