Intern in the Climate Action, Sustainability and Science Department, Mission Performance Simulation

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Position Title: Intern in the Climate Action, Sustainability and Science Department, Mission Performance Simulation
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, Earth observation, and scientific research. ESA's mission is to provide Europe with a space capability that meets the needs of its citizens and contributes to the global understanding of our planet and the universe.

Job Overview:
This internship opportunity is situated within the Directorate of Earth Observation Programmes at the European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC) in Noordwijk, Netherlands. The intern will work in the Earth and Mission Science Division, which is responsible for bridging science and technology to translate innovative ideas into practical applications in Earth system science. The intern will engage in the Harmony End-to-End Mission Performance Simulation, which is ESA’s 10th Earth Explorer mission. This mission focuses on observing and quantifying small-scale motion and deformation fields, contributing to data-driven representations of processes in Earth System models. The intern will utilize and enhance existing mission performance evaluation tools, demonstrating the mission's capability to deliver science data and identifying areas for improvement.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be responsible for using high-fidelity simulation environments to demonstrate the mission’s capability to deliver science data within the stated mission requirements. This includes identifying and suggesting areas of improvement within existing tools, focusing on both fundamental aspects and user-friendliness. Additionally, the intern will use derived performance evaluations to construct, assess, and quantify science data error budgets. The role requires collaboration with a diverse and international team of scientists, contributing to the preparation and development of Earth Observation missions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be university students, preferably in their final or second-to-last year of a Master’s level course, and must remain enrolled at their university for the entire duration of the internship. A solid understanding of at least one of the Harmony science disciplines and applications is essential. Demonstrable programming skills in Python are required, and knowledge of active microwave (e.g., SAR) and optical remote sensing is considered an asset. A good knowledge of English or French is mandatory, with knowledge of another Member State language being an advantage.

Educational Background:
The position requires candidates to be enrolled in a university program, ideally pursuing a Master’s degree in a relevant field related to Earth observation, climate science, or a related discipline. The internship is designed for students who are in their final or penultimate year of study, ensuring that they have a solid academic foundation to contribute effectively to the team.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandated, candidates should possess a solid understanding of the scientific principles related to the Harmony mission. Experience with programming, particularly in Python, is crucial, as the intern will be expected to engage with simulation tools and performance evaluation models. Familiarity with Earth observation technologies and methodologies will be beneficial.

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. Knowledge of an additional language from one of the ESA member states would be considered an asset, enhancing communication within the diverse team.

Additional Notes:
This internship is a full-time position based at the ESTEC in Noordwijk, Netherlands. The closing date for applications is 30 November 2024 at 23:59 CET/CEST. 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. Applications from women are particularly encouraged. The agency also welcomes candidates with disabilities and strives to provide necessary support in the workplace.