Intern in the Human Exploration Science Team, In-situ Food Production

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Position Title: Intern in the Human Exploration Science Team, In-situ Food Production
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 human and robotic missions, Earth observation, and telecommunications. ESA's mission is to provide Europe with a space capability and to foster international cooperation in space exploration.

Job Overview:
This internship opportunity is situated within the Directorate of Human and Robotic Exploration Programmes at the European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC) in Noordwijk, Netherlands. The Human Exploration Science Office aims to advance human exploration into deep space, focusing on understanding biological and physiological responses to space stressors. The intern will engage in research related to in-situ food production for human exploration missions, particularly in the context of long-duration missions such as a potential three-year journey to Mars. The intern will conduct a bibliographic study on autonomous food production techniques utilizing organisms like fungi, insects, and micro-algae, ultimately producing a report that identifies research priorities and key players in this field.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for performing a comprehensive bibliographic study on the current state of autonomous food production techniques in space. This includes analyzing and synthesizing published research, collaborating with the human exploration science team and other ESA teams, such as the MELiSSA team. The intern will also be expected to produce a publishable report that outlines the findings of their research, highlighting the nutritional requirements for crew members during long-duration missions and identifying potential solutions for food production in space.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be university students, preferably in their final or second-to-last year of a Master's level course. They must remain enrolled at their university for the entire duration of the internship. A background in biotechnology, food production, agriculture, or autonomous systems is essential. Additionally, candidates should possess strong analytical skills and the ability to synthesize complex information.

Educational Background:
The position requires candidates to be enrolled in a university program, ideally pursuing a Master's degree. The focus should be on fields related to biotechnology, food production, agriculture, or similar disciplines that align with the objectives of the internship.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandated, candidates should demonstrate a strong academic background and relevant coursework in biotechnology or related fields. Experience in research methodologies or projects related to food production or autonomous systems would 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 Member State language is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This internship is a full-time position with a contract duration aligned with the academic calendar. ESA is committed to diversity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, including those with disabilities. The agency provides necessary support for individuals with disabilities in the workplace and during the recruitment process. Applicants must be nationals of specific European countries or associated states, and they must be eligible to access technology subject to European and US export control regulations.