Location ESTEC, Noordwijk, Netherlands or EAC, Porz-Wahn, Germany
Our team and mission
Within the European Space Agency (ESA)’s Directorate for Human and Robotic Exploration, the Exploration Science activities are a cornerstone of the Explore2040 strategy, driving innovation at the intersection of human exploration and scientific discovery. It integrates exploration-focused science, essential for future missions, with exploration-enabled science, leveraging space for groundbreaking research. With access to ground-based analogues, the ISS, future commercial LEO platforms, the Moon, and Mars, Exploration Science offers unique opportunities for transformative research in diverse environments. Guided by European values of collaboration, excellence, and responsibility, the programme emphasises open science, international cooperation, and inspiring future generations. From developing countermeasures for spaceflight to searching for life on Mars, ESA Exploration Science advances knowledge for space and Earth alike.
This internship will be done in close collaboration with the Exploration Strategy Office.
Candidates interested are encouraged to visit the ESA website: <http://www.esa.int>
Field(s) of activity for the internship
Assessment of Societal Benefits of Exploration Science:
You will support the Exploration Science Office, in close coordination with the HRE Strategy Office, in developing and applying a structured approach to identify and evaluate the societal benefits generated by ESA’s exploration science activities, from ground-based analogue studies to research performed on ground and suborbital platforms, the International Space Station and future Moon and Mars missions.
Societal Impact Framework Development:
You will review methodologies and frameworks used by space agencies, research funders, and international organisations to assess the societal, economic, technological, health, and educational returns of publicly funded research. Building on this benchmarking, you will help identify indicators and propose a structured methodology tailored to exploration science, covering benefits such as advances in human physiology and countermeasure development, contributions to terrestrial healthcare (e.g. ageing, rehabilitation, cardiovascular and musculoskeletal health), technology and knowledge transfer (e.g., innovative materials, robotics, sensor and monitoring technologies, data science and AI), industrial and economic spin-offs, and educational and inspirational outcomes.
Impact Mapping and Case Study Compilation:
Using this framework, you will identify and document concrete examples of societal benefit arising from past and ongoing exploration science studies, such as bed rest and dry immersion analogue research, research on suborbital platforms, and ISS-based investigations, just to name a few. Working with scientists across the Exploration Science Office and the HRE Strategy Office, you will trace research outcomes to real-world applications and compile these into case studies and a reference repository to support impact reporting, stakeholder communication, and the design of future research calls. This internship offers insight into science policy and impact evaluation within human space exploration, with practical experience in framework design, benefit-mapping methodologies, and stakeholder communication.
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 university course 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.
Background: A background in life sciences, physical sciences, health or biomedical sciences, economics, public policy, or science communication is essential, along with a strong interest in space research and its wider societal relevance. You should possess strong analytical and synthesis skills, excellent written and verbal communication abilities, and a motivation to contribute to the assessment and communication of research impact. The ability to work independently while maintaining coordination with a team is important. The internship is designed for students in their final or second-to-last year of university studies, ensuring they have a solid academic foundation relevant to the tasks involved.
Experience: Prior experience in space research is not required. However, familiarity with impact assessment methodologies, research evaluation, socioeconomic analysis, or science communication is considered beneficial. Any relevant experience in structured research, literature reviews, policy analysis, or data synthesis will be advantageous. Given that the internship targets students, the focus is on providing hands-on experience and skills development, rather than requiring extensive professional background.
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 [ESA.Student.Internships@esa.int](mailto:ESA.Student.Internships@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 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, Cyprus, 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.