Intern in the Vulcan Facility

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Position Title: Intern in the Vulcan Facility
Location: Harwell
Country: United Kingdom
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 in Europe and collaborates with various international partners to advance space exploration, science, and technology. ESA's mission encompasses a wide range of activities, including Earth observation, human and robotic exploration, satellite navigation, and telecommunications, with a focus on fostering innovation and scientific research.

Job Overview:
The internship-position" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">internship position is situated within the Directorate of Human and Robotic Exploration Programmes at the European Centre for Space Applications and Telecommunications (ECSAT) in Harwell, UK. The intern will be involved in the Vulcan Analogue Sample Facility, which plays a crucial role in supporting long-term Lunar and Martian Surface Exploration. The intern will work on developing operational concepts and low Technology Readiness Level (TRL) technologies, contributing to the validation and de-risking of these technologies. The role requires collaboration with various ESA teams and focuses on analogue sample research and development, which is essential for future space missions. The intern will gain hands-on experience in a multidisciplinary environment, working alongside experts in planetary science and geoscience.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for conducting research activities related to analogue samples and their applications in space exploration. This includes developing new analogue sample recipes tailored for specific planetary missions, creating low to medium fidelity simulants for various planetary bodies, and high fidelity simulants for engineering applications. The intern will also adapt techniques for advanced characterization of analogue samples, focusing on their physical, mechanical, mineralogical, and chemical properties. Additionally, the intern will support the Vulcan team in providing expert advice on analogue sample topics to various research and technology development projects within ESA and its member states. The role will involve collaboration with other teams, data analysis, and the preparation of reports and presentations on research findings.

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 Planetary Science or Geoscience is required, along with knowledge of coding languages, geotechnical engineering, and materials processing being advantageous. The intern should possess good analytical skills, the ability to work in a team, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. Familiarity with research methodologies and laboratory techniques related to geological samples will be beneficial.

Educational Background:
The position requires candidates to be enrolled in a university program, ideally pursuing a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as Planetary Science, Geoscience, or a related discipline. The intern must remain enrolled at their university for the entire duration of the internship, ensuring that they can balance their academic commitments with the internship responsibilities.

Experience:
While prior work experience is not mandatory, any relevant internships or projects related to planetary science, geoscience, or engineering will be considered an asset. The ideal candidate should demonstrate a keen interest in space exploration and a willingness to learn and adapt in a dynamic research environment.

Languages:
The working languages of the European Space Agency are English and French. A good command of one of these languages is required for the position, while knowledge of additional languages spoken in ESA member states would be considered a valuable asset. Proficiency in technical language related to scientific research and engineering is also important.

Additional Notes:
This internship is a full-time position based at the ECSAT facility in Harwell, UK. The contract duration aligns with the academic calendar, and candidates must be eligible to work in the UK. The European Space Agency is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, ethnicity, or other characteristics. The agency also provides support for individuals with disabilities during the recruitment process and in the workplace. Applicants must be nationals of specific ESA member states or associated countries to be eligible for this internship.