Intern in the Exploration science team, Moon water extraction and Manufacturing

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Position Title: Intern in the Exploration science team, Moon water extraction and Manufacturing
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 satellite navigation. ESA'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.

Job Overview:
The internship opportunity is situated within the Directorate of Human and Robotic Exploration at the European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC) in Noordwijk, Netherlands. This position is designed for university students who are eager to engage in cutting-edge research related to space exploration, specifically focusing on the extraction of water from the Moon and the potential for space-based manufacturing and agriculture. Interns will have the chance to work on significant projects that utilize advanced simulation techniques to model and analyze lunar water extraction processes, as well as explore sustainable practices for manufacturing and agriculture in space environments. The internship aims to provide hands-on experience in a dynamic research setting, contributing to the future of space missions and resource management.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will have the opportunity to choose between two main topics: Moon water extraction simulation and Space-based Manufacturing and Agriculture. For the Moon water extraction simulation, interns will conduct a literature review on existing research, set up simulation software (DARSim) to model lunar regolith, and analyze data to evaluate extraction methods. For the Space-based Manufacturing and Agriculture topic, interns will study various systems designed for space environments, create detailed models of these systems, perform exergy analysis to identify energy efficiency, and simulate operations under different conditions. Interns are expected to engage in comprehensive research, data analysis, and system modeling, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in these fields.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be university students, preferably in their final or second-to-last year of a Master's level course. They should remain enrolled at their university for the entire duration of the internship. Strong knowledge and experience with modeling tools such as Matlab and Python are essential. Additionally, a background in fluid dynamics and thermodynamics is advantageous. Proficiency in English or French is required, and knowledge of another language from a Member State is considered an asset.

Educational Background:
The position requires candidates to be enrolled in a university program, ideally pursuing a Master's degree. The internship is particularly suited for students in fields related to engineering, physics, or other relevant scientific disciplines, as the work involves complex modeling and analysis related to space exploration.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandatory, candidates should demonstrate a strong academic background and familiarity with relevant scientific concepts and tools. Experience with simulation software and research methodologies will be beneficial for applicants, particularly those who have engaged in projects related to space science or engineering.

Languages:
The mandatory working languages of the European Space Agency are English and French. A good command of one of these languages is required for effective communication within the agency. Knowledge of additional languages from ESA Member States is considered a valuable asset, enhancing collaboration in a diverse work environment.

Additional Notes:
This internship is a full-time position and is part of ESA's commitment to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. The agency encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, beliefs, age, or disability. The internship is open to nationals from specific European countries and cooperating states, ensuring a diverse pool of applicants. The deadline for applications is set for 30 November 2024, and candidates must be eligible to access technology subject to European and US export control regulations.