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Position Title: Intern in the Optics Section
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, technology development, and Scientific Research. ESA's mission is to provide Europe with a space capability and to foster cooperation among its member states in the field of space exploration and technology.

Job Overview:
The Internship opportunity is located within the Directorate of Technology, Engineering and Quality at the European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC) in Noordwijk, Netherlands. The Optics Section is responsible for providing functional support to ESA projects and conducting Research and Development in optics for space applications. Interns will engage in projects that involve the development of novel optical systems, including spectro-radiometric imaging instruments and interferometers. The role will involve modeling optical instruments, particularly hyperspectral imaging systems, and integrating optical test setups to assess and enhance the performance of these systems. Interns will work closely with a multidisciplinary team of engineers and scientists, gaining hands-on experience in optical engineering and contributing to the advancement of state-of-the-art optical instruments for earth observation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Interns will have the opportunity to choose between two main topics: 1) Modelling of Optical Instruments, where they will study hyperspectral imaging systems, develop performance simulators, and assess conventional model limitations; and 2) Integration of an optical test set-up, where they will Design and implement a collimator for optical testing, perform alignment, and verify performance using commercial test equipment. Throughout the internship, interns will collaborate with experienced professionals, participate in team meetings, and contribute to the overall objectives of the Optics Section.

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. A good knowledge of English or French is required, and knowledge of another Member State language would be an asset. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and a keen interest in optical engineering and space applications.

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 optics, engineering, physics, or a related discipline. The internship is designed for students who are in their final or second-to-last year of study, ensuring that they have a solid foundation in the necessary theoretical and practical aspects of the field.

Experience:
While prior experience in optical engineering or related fields is not mandatory, candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of optical principles and a willingness to learn. Experience with programming software tools such as Matlab or Python, as well as optical engineering software like Zemax OpticStudio, is highly desirable. Interns will gain practical experience through hands-on projects and collaboration with experienced professionals in the field.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English or French, with a good knowledge of one of these languages required. Knowledge of another language from an ESA member state would be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's profile and ability to communicate within the diverse environment of the agency.

Additional Notes:
This internship is a full-time position, and candidates must be nationals of one of the ESA member states or associated countries. The internship is an equal opportunity opportunity, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, beliefs, age, or disability. The agency is committed to creating an inclusive working environment and values diversity within its workforce. Applications will be accepted until the closing date of 30 November 2024.