Intern in the Space Training Team, Analytical Toolset development (CAVES & PANGAEA)
Porz-Wahn, DE
Location
EAC, Porz-Wahn, Germany
Our team and mission
The CAVES and PANGAEA team specialises in training programmes that equip astronauts and mission developers with scientific, expeditionary and behavioural skills. The group’s primary output is focused around two training programmes, CAVES, a course that uses natural cave systems for expeditionary and human behavioural and performance training, and PANGAEA, a course for geological and astrobiological field training.
Complementary to their training goals, these programmes are used as research and development platforms to advance several of ESA’s technological, scientific and operational areas.
Candidates interested are encouraged to visit the ESA website: http://www.esa.int
Field(s) of activity for the internship
Topic of the internship: Development of Analytical Toolset for recognition of Planetary Materials and Validation of Spectra Classification Methods
Interns are sought to contribute to the ongoing enhancement and development of the PANGAEA analytical toolset. This involves working with multi-spectral archives and the Mineralogical Database, a curated collection of reference information and samples of planetary analogue minerals and rocks. Interns will also assist in evaluating the most suitable spectral identification methods for planetary materials using custom classification software based on Machine Learning techniques.
Key tasks include collecting, organizing, and reviewing the analytical data. Additionally, there may be opportunities to contribute to the preparation of the PANGAEA training course.
For detailed information on this internship position, please click here:
Behavioural competencies
Result Orientation
Operational Efficiency
Fostering Cooperation
Relationship Management
Continuous Improvement
Forward Thinking
For more information, please refer to ESA Core Behavioural Competencies guidebook
Education
You must be a university student, preferably in your final or second-to-last year of a university course at Master’s level and you need to remain enrolled at your University for the entire duration of the internship.
Additional requirements
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.
It would be beneficial for candidates to possess a good understanding and practical experience in utilizing, processing, and analyzing data from analytical methods and instrumentation. This is particularly relevant for molecular and atomic spectroscopy techniques such as Visible and Near-Infrared (VNIR), Raman, Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS), and X-ray Fluorescence (XRF).
Experience in working with and maintaining digital information catalogues and databases would also be advantageous.
Familiarisation with geochemistry, mineralogy and petrology, or attendance of courses related to planetary geology, astrobiology or planetology would be considered a valuable 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.
Applicants must be eligible to access information, technology, and hardware which is subject to European or US export control and sanctions regulations.
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
Please note that applications are only considered from nationals of one of the following States: Austria, Belgium, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
