ESA Graduate Trainee in Remote Sensing Earth Observation Mission Concept Development

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 ESA Graduate Trainee in Remote Sensing Earth Observation Mission Concept Development is a unique opportunity for recent graduates to engage in cutting-edge research and development within the Earth Observation Programmes directorate. The selected candidate will join the Keystone mission team, which is part of the 12th cycle of ESA’s Earth Explorer programme. This mission aims to provide unprecedented observations of atomic oxygen in the mesosphere-thermosphere system, utilizing innovative limb-sounding techniques. The trainee will be involved in the theoretical assessment and performance evaluation of the mission, contributing to the scientific definition and maximizing the mission's scientific output. This role will also include generating instrument data streams, processing them into scientific products, and engaging with the scientific community to promote the mission's objectives. The position offers a comprehensive learning experience about the competitive process of mission selection and the technical and scientific methodologies used in assessing mission feasibility.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the ESA Graduate Trainee include supporting the scientific definition and performance evaluation of the Keystone mission, conducting theoretical assessments, simulating spacecraft signals, generating and processing instrument data streams, and producing scientific outputs for user distribution. The trainee will also engage in mission science activities, including preparing workshops and meetings, contributing to mission communication and public outreach, and collaborating with the mission team and scientific community. Additionally, the trainee will assist in the preparation of the Report for Mission Selection, which is crucial for the final mission selection process scheduled for summer 2028.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have recently completed or be in the final year of a master’s degree in physics, geophysics, or geoscience. They should possess good interpersonal and communication skills, be able to work independently and collaboratively in a multicultural environment, and have demonstrated experience in using Python. Previous experience in international teams is considered an asset, and candidates should be motivated and have clear professional goals that align with the mission's objectives.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a master’s degree in a relevant field such as physics, geophysics, or geoscience. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complex scientific principles and methodologies involved in remote sensing and Earth observation.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have relevant experience gained through internships, project work, or extracurricular activities. This experience should demonstrate a familiarity with the space sector and the specific technical domains related to Earth observation and remote sensing.

Languages:
The working languages of the European Space Agency are English and French. A good command of one of these languages is mandatory, while knowledge of another Member State language is considered an asset. This linguistic proficiency is crucial for effective communication within the multicultural environment of ESA.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under the ESA Graduate Trainee program, which is designed for recent graduates. The contract duration and specific details regarding compensation and benefits will be provided during the recruitment process. ESA is committed to diversity and inclusiveness, welcoming applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious beliefs, age, disability, or other characteristics. The agency also provides necessary support for individuals with disabilities during the recruitment process and in the workplace.