Planetary Scientist

Job Posting Organization:
The European Space Agency (ESA) is a leading organization in space science, established to empower Europe to lead in space exploration and research. ESA operates numerous missions across various domains including heliophysics, planetary science, astrophysics, and fundamental physics. The agency is committed to fostering international collaboration and advancing scientific knowledge through its extensive programs. ESA has a diverse workforce and operates in multiple countries, focusing on innovation and excellence in space science.

Job Overview:
The position of Planetary Scientist is integral to the JUICE mission, which aims to explore Jupiter and its icy moons. This role involves providing scientific expertise and support to the JUICE Project Scientist, ensuring that the mission achieves its scientific objectives while adhering to technical and safety constraints. The successful candidate will engage with external scientific teams and promote the mission within the scientific community. This position also includes the opportunity to conduct personal research in planetary science, contributing to the broader goals of the ESA's Science Directorate.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Planetary Scientist will be responsible for acting as the primary interface for all scientific matters related to the JUICE mission, coordinating between ESA's operations team and external scientific partners. Key responsibilities include ensuring maximum scientific return from the mission, preparing and disseminating scientific documentation, promoting the mission at conferences, and supporting outreach and education activities. The role also involves advising ESA management on scientific matters and participating in future mission assessments and reviews. Additionally, the candidate will be expected to pursue personal research in planetary science and contribute to departmental research activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a PhD in planetary science, physics, or a related field. Relevant professional experience in planetary science or related areas is essential. Desirable qualifications include experience in managing scientific teams, coordinating international scientific efforts, and familiarity with planetary science mission operations and instrumentation. A strong understanding of the European and global space science context is also beneficial.

Educational Background:
A doctoral degree (PhD) in planetary science, physics, or a closely related discipline is required for this position. This educational background ensures that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and research skills to contribute effectively to the JUICE mission and the broader objectives of the ESA's Science Directorate.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have relevant professional experience in planetary science or related fields. While specific years of experience are not stipulated, candidates with less than four years of relevant experience may be considered for a lower grade level (A1). Experience in scientific research, particularly in planetary science, and familiarity with space missions will be advantageous.

Languages:
The working languages of ESA are English and French. A good command of one of these languages is mandatory, while knowledge of another language from a Member State is considered an asset. This linguistic requirement ensures effective communication within the diverse international environment of ESA.

Additional Notes:
This is a fixed-term appointment with an initial duration of four years, which may be extended up to a maximum of eight years based on performance and organizational needs. The position is based at ESTEC in Noordwijk, Netherlands, or ESAC in Villanueva de la Cañada, Spain, with a preference for the Noordwijk location. ESA 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 recruitment process may include selection tests and background screening to comply with security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security procedures.