ESA Graduate Trainee in Remote Sensing Earth Observation Mission Concept Development

Job Requisition

Date Posted: 7 October 2026

Closing Date: 4 November 2026 23:59 CET/CEST

Directorate:
Earth Observation Programmes

As part of the 12th cycle of ESA’s Earth Explorer programme (EE12), the candidate mission ”Keystone” will undergo a Phase A study. Keystone would provide the first direct observations of atomic oxygen in the mesosphere-thermosphere system, using a unique combination of limb-sounding techniques to cover altitudes from 50 to 250km. These observations, together with measurements of composition, temperature and winds, would enable scientists to study the processes that drive variability and energy balance in this region of the atmosphere, including the effects of solar cycles and space weather.

Three EE12 candidate missions are currently under consideration; following completion of their respective Phase A studies, one will be selected for implementation. A brief description of the EE12 mission candidates is available here:

You will join the Keystone mission team, supporting the mission’s scientific definition and performance evaluation to help maximise its scientific output and contribute to the feasibility assessment and final mission selection process, scheduled for summer 2028. You will work on the theoretical assessment and testing of the mission’s performance, including simulating the signals observed by the spacecraft, generating instrument data streams and processing them into scientific products for distribution to users.

You may also compare these data with similar outputs from other simulators or experimental airborne campaigns. You will produce and analyse output that contributes to the preparation of the Report for Mission Selection.

You may also support other mission science and promotion activities, including engagement with the scientific community and the mission team, the preparation of workshops and meetings, and mission communication, visualisation and public outreach. You will gain insight into the competitive process through which ESA Earth observation research mission concepts are defined and matured before selection for mission implementation. You will also learn about the technical and scientific approaches used to assess mission performance and feasibility.

Knowledge of relevant technical and 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 and projects

You should have recently completed or be in the final year of a master’s degree in physics, geophysics or geoscience.

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:

Demonstrated experience in using Python 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, religious beliefs, age, disability or other characteristics.

Important Information and Disclaimer

During the recruitment process, the Agency may request applicants to undergo selection tests. Additionally, successful…