Our team and mission

ESA’s ‘Space for 5G/6G & Sustainable Connectivity’ strategic programme line is advancing 5G and 6G technologies to support the digital transformation of Europe by integrating satellite and ground networks. This fusion of terrestrial (TN) and non-terrestrial networks (NTN) will revolutionise how we live, work and communicate in terms of smart mobility, global coverage, security and network resilience. The programme aims to promote the standardisation of seamless global connectivity for various industries and applications, including telemedicine, tele-education, and autonomous vehicles, airplanes and ships.
This includes the development and utilisation of the flagship ECSAT 5G/6G Hub (UK), a centre for innovation and demonstration, where the use of TN/NTN networks, AI and extended reality is tailored to meet the growing demands of stakeholders such as operators, technology and service providers, and applications developers. 

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

Field(s) of activity for the internship

Topic of the internship: Exploring 6G, AI, and Satellite Communications at ESA’s 5G/6G Hub

As an intern, you will:

• learn about next-generation wireless technologies like 6G and how they can support new digital experiences such as immersive reality, smart cities, and global connectivity;
• investigate how satellites can be used alongside ground networks to extend coverage, especially in remote or hard-to-reach areas;
• explore how Artificial Intelligence (AI) and edge computing can improve satellite-based communication services;
• use ESA’s 5G/6G Hub at Harwell to support hands-on demonstrations and testing, including use cases involving AI and immersive technologies like virtual and augmented reality (XR);
• help shape a technology roadmap showing how satellites can support future 6G networks and contribute to global standards;
• present your findings and ideas in a final report and presentation to ESA experts;
• you will receive guidance and materials from ESA, including background on current technologies, market trends, and future opportunities. This is a unique opportunity.

See ESA websites for more information: Space for 5G and 6G | ESA CSC

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.

You should demonstrate good interpersonal skills, proactiveness and the capacity to work both independently and as part of a team. An interest in XR development and LLMs, is considered an asset. 

Besides this, other additional requirements are:

• knowledge and background in telecommunication networks architecture, with preference towards satellite communications;
• knowledge in future cellular communications (e.g. 5G and 6G);
• knowledge of computer science advanced topics including: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning;
• knowledge of mixed reality development and programming (e.g. AR, VR, XR).