ESA Graduate Trainee in In Situ Resource Utilisation

Our team and mission

The Mechatronics and Optics Division TEC-MM is the centre of competence of the Agency in areas related to Optics, Optoelectronics, Robotics, and instrumentation development for microgravity experiments and exploration, ECLS design, engineering and verification, and In Situ Resource Utilisation. It provides support to projects, preparatory programs, and technology programs. Within this frame, the Life Support and Physical Sciences Instrumentation Section is amongst others in charge of the development of advanced life support systems, In Situ Resources Utilisation, small payloads for surface exploration, and support to operational activities in Human spaceflight.

Field(s) of activity/research for the traineeship

Within our team, you will be involved in activities related to In Situ Resource Utilisation. In this field, several processes are being studied for oxygen production. Of particular interest for us are electrolysis-based processes, where oxygen is produced while reducing regolith. We are collaborating with the directorate of Human Spaceflight in this respect and with the materials and processes section within our directorate. The tasks during this traineeship may comprise:

• Literature study on process relevant data, techniques
• Process modelling
• Support work to testing and measuring process parameters.
• Support work to process optimisation and mechanical design.
• Support to other ISRU related system engineering aspects, like beneficiation, storage, and purification

Technical competencies

Knowledge of relevant technical/functional domains

Relevant experience gained during internships, project work and/or extracurricular or other activities

General knowledge of the space sector and relevant activities

Knowledge of ESA and its programmes/projects

Behavioural competencies

Result Orientation

Operational Efficiency

Fostering Cooperation

Relationship Management

Continuous Improvement

Forward Thinking

Education

You should have just completed, or be in the final year of your master’s degree in Materials Sciences, Chemical Engineering, or Aerospace Engineering.

Additional requirements

You should have good interpersonal and communication skills and should be able to work in a multicultural environment, both independently and as part of a team. Previous experience of working in international teams can be considered an asset. Your motivation, overall professional perspective, and career goals will also be explored during the later stages of the selection process.

Applicants should have a good understanding of material sciences, material characterisation (e.g. XRD, SEM, mass spectrometry), and be willing and capable to work autonomously and in a multidisciplinary team. Knowledge of high-temperature electrolysis processes is an asset.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusiveness
ESA is an equal opportunity employer, committed to achieving diversity within the workforce and creating an inclusive working environment. We therefore welcome applications from all qualified candidates irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, beliefs, age, disability, or other characteristics. Applications from women are encouraged.

At the Agency, we value diversity, and we welcome people with disabilities. Whenever possible, we seek to accommodate individuals with disabilities by providing the necessary support at the workplace. The Human Resources Department can also provide assistance during the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss this further, please contact us via email at contact.human.resources@esa.int.

Important Information and Disclaimer

During the recruitment process, the Agency may request applicants to undergo selection tests. Additionally, successful candidates will need to undergo basic screening before appointment, which will be conducted by an external background screening service, in compliance with the European Space Agency's security procedures.

The information published on ESA’s careers website regarding working conditions is correct at the time of publication. It is not intended to be exhaustive and may not address all questions you would have.

Nationality and Languages
Please note that applications can only be considered from nationals of one of the following States: Austria, Belgium, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. Nationals from Latvia, Lithuania, and Slovakia as Associate Member States, or Canada as a Cooperating State, can apply as well as those from Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, and Malta as European Cooperating States (ECS).

According to the ESA Convention, the recruitment of staff must take into account an adequate distribution of posts among nationals of the ESA Member States. When short-listing for an interview, priority will be given to external candidates from under-represented Member States.

The working languages of the Agency are English and French. A good knowledge of one of these is required. Knowledge of another Member State language would be an asset.