Intern in the Utilisation and Enabled Science Team, X-Ray Facility

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Position Title: Intern in the Utilisation and Enabled Science Team, X-Ray Facility
Location: Noordwijk
Country: Netherlands
Deadline Date: 30 November 2024 23:59 CET/CEST

Job Details

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 operates across multiple countries, focusing on various aspects of space exploration, including Earth observation, human and robotic exploration, and scientific research. ESA's mission is to provide Europe with a space capability and to foster international cooperation in space exploration.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is located at the European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC) in Noordwijk, Netherlands, within the Directorate of Human and Robotic Exploration. The Utilisation and Enabled Science Team coordinates ESA's research program in physical sciences and biology, utilizing microgravity platforms such as the International Space Station, Moon, and Mars. The internship focuses on AI for Automated X-Ray Image Analysis, where the intern will contribute to the development of an X-Ray Facility for experiments on the ISS. The role involves analyzing key features for scientific investigations and reviewing emerging AI and Machine Learning approaches to derive a strategy for semi-automatic image analysis. This position offers a unique opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research and contribute to significant scientific advancements in microgravity environments.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for conducting a detailed analysis of the features critical to the planned scientific investigations involving X-ray diagnostics. This includes reviewing various AI and Machine Learning methodologies to develop a strategy for semi-automatic image analysis of the data generated from the X-Ray Facility. The intern will also be expected to collaborate with team members, participate in project meetings, and contribute to the documentation of findings and methodologies. Additionally, the intern may assist in the preparation of reports and presentations to communicate results to the team and other stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be university students, preferably in their final or second-to-last year of a Master's level course. A strong background in physics and materials science is essential, with knowledge covering both experimental and modeling/simulation approaches. The intern should demonstrate a keen interest in AI and its applications in scientific research, particularly in the context of microgravity environments. Familiarity with X-ray diagnostics and image analysis techniques would be advantageous.

Educational Background:
The position requires candidates to be enrolled in a university program, ideally pursuing a Master's degree in physics or materials science. The educational background should encompass both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in relevant scientific fields, particularly those related to materials characterization and analysis.

Experience:
While prior work experience is not mandatory, any relevant internships or projects related to physics, materials science, or AI will be considered an asset. The ideal candidate should demonstrate a strong understanding of scientific principles and a passion for research in space exploration and technology.

Languages:
The working languages of the European Space Agency are English and French. A good command of one of these languages is required, while knowledge of another Member State language would be considered an asset. Proficiency in technical language related to physics and materials science is also beneficial.

Additional Notes:
This internship is a full-time position, and candidates must remain enrolled at their university for the entire duration of the internship. ESA is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, beliefs, age, disability, or other characteristics. The agency values diversity and seeks to accommodate individuals with disabilities in the workplace. Applications are only accepted from nationals of specific member states and cooperating states, as outlined in the job posting.