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Join the forefront of space exploration with ESA, shaping the future of flight dynamics and mission analysis
Overview
Salary
No salary declared 😔
Location
Darmstadt, DE
Expires
Expires at anytime
Organisation Summary
Become a pivotal part of the European Space Operations Centre (ESOC), a hub of technical innovation responsible for mission-critical operations throughout the Solar System. At ESOC, you'll collaborate with experts in areas such as Mission Analysis and Space Debris, working towards common solutions to space exploration challenges and contributing to ESA's groundbreaking missions.
Role Summary
- Develop cutting-edge techniques for optimisation under uncertainty to support crucial ESA mission scenarios.
- Apply mathematical and computational strategies to enhance decision-making in space missions.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to advance mission analysis and spacecraft design.
Role Requirements
- PhD in optimisation or a closely related field, preferably obtained within the last five years.
- Expertise in optimisation under uncertainty.
- Proficient in software development, particularly in Python and C++.
- Familiarity with GitLab, CI/CD, and modern software development practices.
- Experience in astrodynamics, orbital theory, and spacecraft mission design.
Application Process Details
- Submit your CV and a compelling motivation letter.
- Prepare a concise research proposal (up to 5 pages) to upload with your application.
Our team and mission You will be part of the Mission Analysis Section in the Flight Dynamics Division at the European Space Operations Centre (ESOC). This Division is a centre of technical excellence, responsible for the development, implementation and operations in the domain for ESA missions throughout the Solar System. ESOC is responsible for spacecraft operations for ESA missions, including the development of ground systems for operations and operations preparations. You will work closely with colleagues in multiple domains, including Mission Analysis and the Space Debris Office. Our mission is to establish common solutions to challenges faced by users throughout the Agency.
The role This research aims to develop techniques for optimisation under uncertainty that ESA can adopt in important mission scenarios. Optimisation under uncertainty is a mathematical and computational approach used in decision-making. It is employed to find solutions that are not only optimal under expected or average conditions but also remain satisfactory or feasible when facing variations or uncertainties in the underlying parameters.
Job requirements You should have recently completed or be close to completion of a PhD in optimisation or a related field. Preference will be given to applications submitted by candidates who have received their PhD within the past five years. You should have: deep knowledge of the subject area, optimisation under uncertainty; strong software development skills in Python and C++; experience with modern software development environments, GitLab, CI/CD; experience with astrodynamics, orbital theory and spacecraft mission design.
Benefits 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.
Application details In addition to your CV and your motivation letter, please prepare a research proposal of no more than 5 pages. This proposal should be uploaded to the 'additional documents' field of the 'application information' section.
