ESA Graduate Trainee in Artificial Intelligence & Quantum Computing for Space Exploration

 

Location

EAC, Porz-Wahn, Germany.

Our team and mission

The Software and Artificial Intelligence Team drives innovation in the projects and initiatives of the Directorate of Human and Robotic Exploration, across diverse exploration destinations such as Low Earth Orbit (LEO), the Moon, Mars and Earth analogues. As a central hub for software innovation, the team collaborates with internal and external tech experts to highlight the crucial role of advanced software in exploration. The team is structured around four core pillars: AI, XR, IoT, and quantum technologies, with data serving as a foundational element throughout. This comprehensive approach ensures the effective integration of state-of-the-art technologies, positioning the team at the forefront of exploration advancements. You can find out more about the work we do in AI here:

https://blogs.esa.int/exploration/the-power-of-ai-in-space-exploration/ 
 

You are encouraged to visit the ESA website: http://www.esa.int

Field(s) of activity/research for the traineeship

As an ESA Graduate Trainee, you will be working with the Software & AI Team to support the initiation and development of AI applications for space exploration missions. In this role, you will be:

 

• Assisting in the development of AI-driven prototypes and simulations to demonstrate the core capabilities of an application or system, ensuring it meets the specific requirements before full-scale development;
• Applying general AI and machine learning techniques either independently or in collaboration with experts to develop smaller-scale AI applications with for example in fields such as predictive analytics, anomaly detection, or data-driven decision support;
• Supporting the definition of high-level requirements and specifications in preparation for tenders with industry, helping to ensure that the scope and objectives of AI projects are well coordinated and clearly outlined;
• Participating in progress meetings, reviews, and tests to verify the functionality of AI applications, ensuring alignment with project goals and requirements;
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure that best practices and standardisation are followed across ESA projects, supporting the coordination of these efforts;
• Supporting the identification and initiation of new opportunities and projects to integrate AI into space exploration missions based on the findings from previous studies;
• Investigating and contributing to the further materialisation of Quantum Computer utilisation, particularly for planetary navigation on the Moon for Rovers, as part of efforts to explore innovative applications for advanced computational technologies.

Technical competencies

Knowledge of relevant technical/functional domainsRelevant experience gained during internships, project work and/or extracurricular or other activitiesGeneral knowledge of the space sector and relevant activitiesKnowledge of ESA and its programmes/projects

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 should have just completed, or be in the final year of your master’ s degree in a relevant field such as data science, computer science, artificial intelligence, business analytics, or other related disciplines. A solid academic foundation in AI, machine learning, or software development will be beneficial to this role.

Additional requirements

• AI and Machine Learning: A solid understanding of machine learning algorithms, frameworks, and techniques, with practical experience in developing and deploying AI solutions. Candidates should have hands-on experience with AI projects, demonstrating not only knowledge of "what" is being done, but also a clear understanding of "why" it is being done and "how" to implement it effectively.
• Programming Knowledge: Proficiency in Python, R, or other languages used for data science and machine learning applications.
• Quantum Computing: Familiarity with Quantum Computing principles and their applications, with a particular focus on innovative use cases such as planetary navigation and optimisation challenges. Hands-on experience with quantum computing platforms (e.g., IBM Q, Google Quantum AI) is a plus.
• Prototyping and Development: Experience in developing prototypes and MVPs for AI applications, with a strong focus on understanding the problem at hand and applying appropriate AI solutions to address it. Proven ability to work on real-world AI projects with a clear understanding of the technical challenges involved.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. The ability to clearly articulate the rationale behind AI decisions and methodologies is essential. 
• Self-Organisation: Strong self-organisation skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritise work, and meet deadlines. Proactive in identifying and addressing obstacles.
• Collaboration and Coordination: Ability to work effectively in a multi-disciplinary, multi-cultural team environment, supporting cross-functional knowledge exchange and contributing to the development of AI solutions across different departments within ESA.
• Learning Mindset: A strong desire to learn and grow within the field of AI, with a focus on both technical development and practical application of AI solutions in the context of space exploration.
• Problem-Solving: A proactive attitude toward identifying challenges and applying well-understood AI techniques to solve complex problems, while being mindful of the constraints and requirements specific to space exploration.
• Fluency in English is required, and knowledge of other languages would be advantageous.
   

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. 

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.

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.  

*Member States, Associate Members or Cooperating States.