ESA Graduate Trainee in Science Impact and Metrics Analysis

Our team and mission

Within the European Space Agency’s Directorate for Human and Robotic Exploration, the Exploration Science activities are a cornerstone of the Explore2040 strategy, driving innovation at the intersection of human exploration and scientific discovery. It integrates exploration-focused science, essential for future missions, with exploration-enabled science, leveraging space for groundbreaking research. With access to ground-based analogues, the ISS, future commercial LEO platforms, the Lunar Gateway, the Moon, and Mars, the programme offers unique opportunities for transformative research in diverse environments. Guided by European values of collaboration, excellence, and responsibility, the programme emphasises open science, international cooperation, and inspiring future generations. From developing countermeasures for spaceflight to searching for life on Mars, ESA Exploration Science advances knowledge for space and Earth alike.

Field(s) of activity/research for the traineeship

As an ESA Graduate Trainee in Science Impact and Metrics Analysis, you will play a pivotal role in the development of a comprehensive tool to systematically capture and evaluate scientific outcomes, benefits, and metrics. This includes metrics such as the number of scientists engaged, publications produced, scientific impact, terrestrial applications of space research, and diversity in the scientists involved in our activities. You will collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and contribute to shaping how we communicate the value of our science to stakeholders and the broader community.

As an EGT, you will have the opportunity to:

• Contribute to the design, development, and implementation of a tool to track and evaluate scientific outcomes and metrics;
• Identify and define key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the impact and benefits of scientific programs;
• Collect and analyse data on metrics such as publications, number of scientists, and diversity;
• Assess the terrestrial benefits and applications of science, as well as the contribution to UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs);
• Work closely with program managers, scientists, and data analysts to ensure the tool captures relevant and accurate information;
• Support the visualisation and reporting of data to highlight trends, insights, and the impact of scientific programs;
• Conduct literature reviews and benchmarking studies to ensure alignment with best practices in measuring scientific impact;
• Assist in the preparation of reports, presentations, and publications to communicate findings to internal and external stakeholders;
• Engage in continuous learning and contribute innovative ideas to improve the tool and its applications.

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 data science, space science, engineering, social sciences or a related discipline.

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.

You should also have:

• Strong analytical skills and experience with data collection, analysis, and visualisation tools (e.g., Excel, Tableau, Python, or R);
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly;
• Familiarity with scientific research processes and an interest in space research and its broader applications;
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment;
• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and eager to learn and contribute to impactful projects.

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
Applicants must be eligible to access technology and hardware which is subject to European and US export control regulations.

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.