Intern in the Earth Observation Department, Simulation and Performance Analysis of the FORUM payload

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Position Title: Intern in the Earth Observation Department, Simulation and Performance Analysis of the FORUM payload
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 various countries in Europe, focusing on space science, Earth observation, human spaceflight, 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-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 Earth Observation Programmes. The FORUM team is responsible for the Far-infrared Outgoing Radiation Understanding and Monitoring (FORUM) mission, which aims to provide critical data on Earth's atmosphere and its role in climate change. The intern will assist in simulating the performance of the satellite payload, ensuring it meets mission objectives, and will work closely with engineers and scientists in a collaborative environment. This role offers hands-on experience with satellite instrumentation and the opportunity to contribute to a significant climate science project, with the launch of the FORUM satellite planned for 2027.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern will be tasked with assisting in the simulation and performance analysis of the FORUM satellite payload. Key responsibilities include using advanced simulation tools to model the instrument's behavior, predicting its performance in orbit, and validating critical parameters for mission success. The intern will participate in technical discussions, contribute to problem-solving efforts, and engage in the full modeling and testing life cycle of the satellite instrument. Additionally, the intern will be involved in team meetings and technical reviews, gaining insights into interdisciplinary collaboration within a large-scale space mission.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must be university students, preferably in their final or second-to-last year of a Master's level course. A background in engineering or a related field, such as aerospace, mechanical, or optical engineering, is required. Familiarity with satellite systems and payload optical technologies is essential, and knowledge of optical engineering is a plus. Proficiency in simulation tools like MATLAB or other relevant modeling software is necessary, along with strong problem-solving skills and the ability to communicate effectively in English.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate should be pursuing a degree in engineering or a related field, with a focus on space technology or Earth observation being advantageous. The candidate must remain enrolled at their university for the entire duration of the internship, ensuring they can apply their academic knowledge in a practical setting.

Experience:
While specific prior experience is not mandatory, familiarity with satellite systems, optical technologies, and simulation tools will be beneficial. The internship is designed for students, so relevant academic projects or coursework can be considered as experience.

Languages:
The working languages of the Agency are English and French. A good knowledge of one of these languages is required, while knowledge of another Member State language would be 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 women and individuals with disabilities. Applicants must be nationals of specific European countries or associated states, and must have access to technology subject to European and US export control regulations.