Internal Research Fellow (PostDoc) in the Directorate of Science at ESTEC, ESAC or STScI

Job Posting Organization:
The European Space Agency (ESA) is a multinational 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, focusing on space science, technology, and applications, with a mission to foster cooperation among its member states and maximize the scientific return from its missions. ESA's headquarters are located in Paris, France, and it has multiple establishments across Europe, including the European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC) in the Netherlands and the European Space Astronomy Centre (ESAC) in Spain.

Job Overview:
The Internal Research Fellow (PostDoc) position within the Directorate of Science at ESA offers a unique opportunity for early-career scientists and engineers to engage in independent research related to space science, applications, or technology. This fellowship is designed to allow fellows to work closely with leading scientists and engineers, gaining firsthand experience of ESA's operations and its collaborative efforts with member states. The role emphasizes the importance of maximizing scientific returns from ESA's missions and encourages fellows to take active roles in research programs and initiatives. The position allows for a flexible allocation of time, permitting fellows to dedicate up to 20% of their time to ESA-related scientific activities, thereby fostering a strong connection between their independent research and ESA's broader scientific objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
As an Internal Research Fellow, the successful candidate will be responsible for conducting independent research in their chosen field, contributing to ESA's scientific initiatives. This includes developing and proposing innovative research projects that align with ESA's missions, collaborating with other scientists and engineers, and participating in the analysis and interpretation of mission data. The fellow will also be expected to engage in outreach activities, sharing their findings with the scientific community and the public. Additionally, the role may involve supervising undergraduate or master's-level student trainees, providing mentorship and guidance in research methodologies and practices. The fellow will be part of the ESA Science Faculty, contributing to various research and scientific activities while having no formal teaching obligations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a PhD in a relevant field, having completed their degree within the last five years. A strong research/publication record is essential, demonstrating the ability to conduct research autonomously. Applicants should also exhibit a general interest in space and space research, along with the capability to gather and share relevant information effectively. Cross-cultural sensitivity is an additional requirement, as the position involves collaboration with a diverse group of scientists and engineers from various backgrounds.

Educational Background:
A completed PhD in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline is mandatory for this position. The PhD must be obtained before the commencement of the Research Fellowship, and candidates who have recently completed their PhD (within the last five years) are preferred. This educational background ensures that the fellow possesses the necessary theoretical knowledge and research skills to contribute effectively to ESA's scientific endeavors.

Experience:
The position is aimed at early-career scientists and engineers, thus requiring candidates to have recently completed their PhD. While prior postdoctoral experience is not mandatory, a demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and a strong publication record are critical. Candidates should have experience in research activities relevant to space science or technology, showcasing their capability to contribute to ESA's mission and objectives.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, as it is one of the working languages of ESA. A good command of French is also required, given its status as the second working language. Knowledge of another language from a Member State would be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to collaborate within the diverse ESA environment.

Additional Notes:
The Research Fellowship is initially offered for a duration of two years, with the possibility of extension for a third year based on performance and project needs. The position is full-time, and candidates are encouraged to indicate their preferred location among ESTEC in the Netherlands, ESAC in Spain, or STScI in the United States. The fellowship is open to nationals of ESA member states and cooperating states, promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with ESA's policies, and successful candidates will undergo a basic screening process prior to appointment.