Our team and mission

ESA Business Applications and Space Solutions (BASS) aims to show that space is open for business and has the power to improve our everyday lives on Earth. This is done by helping companies in ESA’s member states in the development of innovative services and products which utilise data from existing space assets, such as Satellite Communication, Earth Observation, Satellite Navigation and Human Spaceflight technologies, in combination with terrestrial technologies, to deliver sustainable services for the benefit of user communities. 

Operating at the intersection of innovation and business, the programme helps stakeholders in addressing commercial and technical risks throughout the development lifecycle, transforming commercially promising space‐based application concepts into operational, profitable and self‐sustaining applications. Acting as a trusted mediator between user communities, the space industry, and service providers, ESA BASS is committed to demonstrating the transformative power of space technology in improving everyday life on Earth.

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

Field(s) of activity for the internship

Topic of the internship: Environmental Crime Mitigation through Satellite Applications

You will have the opportunity to contribute to various initiatives aimed at addressing environmental challenges, with a focus on environmental crime. Key activities:

• researching current technologies: you will investigate the technologies that national authorities, governments, NGOs, and other entities are currently using to combat environmental crimes. This includes understanding the strengths and limitations of these technologies and identifying areas for improvement;
• collaborating to understand cutting-edge future services: you will explore new and innovative technologies where space technology or satellite data, such as satellite Earth observation, satellite navigation, or satellite communication, could play a significant role in combating environmental crimes. This involves staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in space technologies and satellite data;
• developing partnerships: you will help manage and create partnerships with environmental organisations, national authorities, technology suppliers, and other stakeholders. This involves understanding key stakeholders related to environmental crimes, making contact with them, and establishing collaborative relationships.

This internship will provide you with valuable experience in exploring innovative solutions using space technology, conducting in-depth research and creating partnerships. You will gain insights into how satellite data and technologies can be leveraged to address critical environmental issues and contribute to a sustainable future. 

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.

The following skills and experiences are considered helpful for this role, but are not required:

• knowledge of environmental legislation - familiarity with national and international environmental laws and regulations is an asset;
• experience with law enforcement agencies - previous experience working with or understanding the operations of national authorities, law enforcement agencies, or environmental protection agencies is beneficial;
• understanding of environmental crimes;
• stakeholder engagement - experience in engaging with stakeholders, including government bodies, NGOs, and community organisations, to address environmental issues;
• policy analysis - ability to analyse and interpret policies related to environmental protection and crime prevention;
• data interpretation;
• technical skills – experience with satellite data analysis, GIS (Geographic Information Systems), remote sensing, satcom, or satnav is an asset;
• research experience;
• strong communication abilities - strong written and verbal communication skills are essential for preparing reports and collaborating with stakeholders;
• analytical skills - ability to analyse complex data and draw meaningful conclusions to support decision-making processes;
• problem-solving capabilities - strong problem-solving skills to identify and address challenges in innovative ways.