Intern in the CAVES & PANGAEA Team - Development of the PANGAEA Analytical Toolset

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'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 and robotic exploration, and telecommunications, and collaborates with numerous international partners to advance space science and technology.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position within the CAVES and PANGAEA team focuses on the development of the PANGAEA Analytical Toolset, which is essential for enhancing the training programs designed for astronauts and mission developers. Interns will play a crucial role in expanding and integrating the Mineralogical Database (MinDB) and the Machine Learning software that supports mineral and rock recognition through advanced analytical techniques. The position requires interns to work closely with Machine Learning developers to collect, organize, and evaluate analytical data, ensuring that training datasets meet scientific standards. Interns will also contribute to the development of mineral identification algorithms, which are vital for the success of future space missions. This role not only provides an opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research and development but also allows interns to gain hands-on experience in a collaborative and innovative environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Expanding, curating, and quality-assessing multi-spectral archives within the Mineralogical Database, focusing on the analytical reference library, validation mineral samples, and petrographic information catalogue of planetary analogue minerals and rocks.
• Assisting in the validation of spectral identification methods through expert review of Machine Learning outputs.
• Supporting the development of PANGAEA training courses, where additional opportunities for involvement may arise.
• Collaborating with team members to ensure that all data collected meets the required scientific standards and contributes to the overall goals of the PANGAEA program.
• Engaging in discussions and meetings to provide insights and recommendations based on analytical findings and data evaluations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be university students, preferably in their final or second-to-last year of a Master's level course. They should demonstrate a good understanding and practical experience in data utilization, processing, and analysis from various analytical methods and instrumentation. Familiarity with molecular and atomic spectroscopy techniques such as Visible and Near-Infrared (VNIR), Raman, Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS), and X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) is highly desirable. Additionally, candidates should have experience with data architecture, digital information catalogues, databases, and scientific data operation pipelines. Proficiency in Python and scientific data processing, analysis, storage, and visualization libraries (e.g., NumPy, JAX, Matplotlib, SQLite) is essential. Knowledge in geochemistry, mineralogy, and petrology, or attendance of courses related to planetary geology, astrobiology, or planetology would be considered a valuable asset.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this internship is that candidates must be enrolled in a university program, ideally at the Master's level, and should be able to demonstrate that they will remain enrolled for the entire duration of the internship. This ensures that interns have a solid academic foundation and are equipped with the necessary theoretical knowledge to contribute effectively to the team's objectives.

Experience:
The level of experience required for this position includes practical experience in data analysis and familiarity with analytical methods and instrumentation. Candidates should have a background that allows them to evaluate spectral data quality and interpret analytical outcomes, ensuring scientific integrity before data integration into the codebase. Experience with data processing and analysis tools, as well as a solid understanding of the relevant scientific domains, is crucial for success in this role.

Languages:
The mandatory working languages of the Agency are English and French. A good knowledge of one of these languages is required for the position. Additionally, knowledge of another ESA Member State language is considered an asset, as it may enhance communication and collaboration within the diverse team environment.

Additional Notes:
This internship is designed for candidates who are looking for a full-time opportunity and are available to start throughout 202

• Candidates are encouraged to indicate their preferred starting date in their cover letter. The position is open to nationals of specific ESA member states, and the agency is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusiveness in its hiring practices. The internship may involve selection tests, and applicants must be eligible to access information and technology subject to European or US export control and sanctions regulations. The agency values diversity and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates, including those with disabilities.