Intern in the Science Engagement and Oversight Office, on the Journey of Solar Shock Waves in Space
Villanueva de la Cañada, ES
Location
ESAC, Villanueva de la Cañada, Spain
Our team and mission
Under the direct authority of D/SCI, the Head of the Science Engagement and Oversight Office is responsible for overseeing the scientific content of the Programme, interfacing with the scientific community and providing scientific expertise to studies, projects and missions, also in other Directorates as needed.
Candidates interested are encouraged to visit the ESA website: http://www.esa.int
Field(s) of activity for the internship
Topic of the internship: The journey of solar shock waves in the turbulent interplanetary space
For the detailed topics descriptions please go to this web page:
The solar system (heliosphere) is a unique astrophysical system, as it can be investigated directly by means of spacecraft instrumentation. With its revolutionary instrumentation probing uncharted regions of interplanetary space close to the Sun, Solar Orbiter has opened a new observational window in the heliosphere. The project focuses on the study of shock waves driven by solar eruption with such revolutionary instrumentation. In particular, it will tackle the interaction between solar shocks and ambient turbulence, a poorly understood phenomenon yet likely crucial for many astrophysical environments.
You will analyse direct measurements of magnetic fields, plasma and energetic particles (electrons, ions) and exploit the most advanced shock survey to date to understand how the passage of shocks influences the turbulence properties of the solar system and, vice-versa, how regions of the solar systems with different turbulence properties influence the behavior of solar shocks. This project is at the forefront of both Solar Orbiter science and research on shock waves, and is expected to produce a paper in a relevant scientific journal.
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 studying at master’s level. In addition, you must be able to prove that you will be 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 ESA Member State language is an asset.
During the interview, your motivation for applying to this role will be explored.
Candidates for this position should have:
- expertise with Python is desirable.
- previous knowledge of plasma/heliospheric physics is an asset but not required.
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, religious beliefs, age, disability or other characteristics.
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.
The information published on ESA’s careers website regarding internship 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. Applicants from Canada as a Cooperating State can apply as well as those from Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus and Malta as European Cooperating States (ECS).
