Intern in the Space Applications Initiatives Section, Green Energy Transition and Energy Security
Harwell
- Organization: ESA - European Space Agency
- Location: Harwell
- Grade: Internship - Internship
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Occupational Groups:
- Environment
- Outer space and satellite technology
- Information Technology and Computer Science
- Renewable Energy sector
- Security and Safety
- Closing Date: 2025-11-30
Intern in the Space Applications Initiatives Section, Green Energy Transition and Energy Security
Harwell, GB
Location
ECSAT, Harwell, United Kingdom
Due to the location of ECSAT and current UK legislation, only UK citizens, students enrolled in a UK university, or those with pre-settled status (right to study) in the UK are eligible to apply for this internship.
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 and https://business.esa.int/energy-task-force
Field(s) of activity for the internship
Topic of the internship: Leveraging Space Applications for Enhancing Green Energy Transition and Energy Security
Objective: you will aim to build up a comprehensive understanding of the market opportunities for downstream space applications that support the transition to clean energy, enhance energy security, and contribute to carbon neutrality by 2050.
Key activities:
- conduct research on existing space applications and their impact on the energy sector;
- analyse the benefits of both socio-economic and green-impact of past/current ESA BASS energy-related activities;
- identify gaps and opportunities for new space-based solutions in the green energy transition;
- supporting the identification and engagement with champion industry stakeholders and public entities who may be the potential customers/users of the services identified;
- contribute to conceptualise new activities;
- assist in organising workshops and seminars to promote the ESA BASS energy initiatives.
As part of the internship, you are expected to gain knowledge of the following in the context of energy transition:
- space applications and technologies' contribution to energy transition;
- understanding of new market opportunities for space applications and their business models;
- learn to collaborate with diverse stakeholders and present findings effectively;
- contribute to real-world activities aimed at enhancing energy security and sustainability.
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.
A background in any of the following disciplines is a strong plus: telecom and integrated applications, Earth observation and environmental sciences, international public law, political sciences, information technology, and system engineering.
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.
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, 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.
Applications from non-qualifying applicants will most likely be discarded by the recruiting manager.