Intern in the Science Operations Department, exploring the AI potential to boost Product Assurance
Villanueva de la Cañada | Madrid
- Organization: ESA - European Space Agency
- Location: Villanueva de la Cañada | Madrid
- Grade: Internship - Internship
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Occupational Groups:
- Operations and Administrations
- Information Technology and Computer Science
- Scientist and Researcher
- Innovations for Sustainable Development
- Closing Date: 2025-11-30
Intern in the Science Operations Department, exploring the AI potential to boost Product Assurance
Villanueva de la Cañada, ES
Location
ESAC, Villanueva de la Cañada, Spain
Our team and mission
Under the direct authority of D/SCI, the Head of the Science Operations Department is responsible for the development of the science operations infrastructure under the Directorate responsibility, the operation of the Directorate’s missions once successfully commissioned, and the curation of all scientific data in the missions’ legacy phase. These responsibilities are discharged in full coordination with the Directorate’s Departments and Offices and as appropriate, with the Directorate of Operations (D/OPS).
In implementing his/her duties, SCI-S is supported by the:
- Mission Management and Science Operations Division (SCI-SO).
- Science Operations Development Division (SCI-SD).
- Data Science and Archives Division (SCI-SA).
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 the potential of Artificial Intelligence to boost Product Assurance
For the detailed topic descriptions please go to this web page:
The Product Assurance Team offers comprehensive support across all missions within the Science Operations department. Our role involves setting and monitoring the quality of software applications developed, as well as ensuring that both development and operational processes meet specific standards. The aim of this internship is to investigate various AI techniques and apply some of them to enhance automation levels and, consequently, the efficiency of the PA Team.
Your work will involve analyzing different AI methodologies such as Machine Learning, Natural Language Processing, and Deep Learning to assess the impact of these technologies on Product Assurance processes and tasks.
The project encompasses two main objectives:
- investigating potential applications for a ChatBot within Product Assurance, exploring available technologies, and developing a prototype that supports Product Assurance Processes and adheres to the ECSS standards relevant to ESAC projects.
- exploring AI assistant tools like MS Copilot to understand their potential in streamlining and speeding up our workflows, thereby increasing efficiency and reducing errors.
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.
Desirable expertise or programming language:
- knowledge of Software Engineering process.
- knowledge of Artificial Intelligence methodologies.
- programming languages: Python.
Desirable competences:
- knowledge of testing processes and tools.
- knowledge of CI/CD.
- knowledge of SW quality assurance practices and techniques.
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 contact.human.resources@esa.int.
Important Information and Disclaimer
During the recruitment process, the Agency may request applicants to undergo selection tests.
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, 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. Applicants from Canada as a Cooperating State can apply as well as those from Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus and Malta as European Cooperating States (ECS).
Applications from non-qualifying applicants will most likely be discarded by the recruiting manager.