Cryosphere and hydrosphere Earth Observation Scientist

Description

Scientist in the Earth Surfaces and Interior Section of the Earth and Mission Science Division of the Science, Applications and Climate Department, Directorate of Earth Observation Programmes.

Duties

You will report to the Head of the Earth Surfaces and Interior Section in the Earth and Mission Science Division and your main tasks and responsibilities will be:

• Providing mission science and scientific support: to ensure the payload and end-to-end system designs fulfil mission requirements during preparation of new mission ideas and concepts; during the development and implementation of approved missions; and for in-orbit commissioning and operations phase calibration/validation activities;
• Establishing, maintaining and convening international advisory groups related to Earth observation missions; initiating and conducting in-house and external scientific studies supporting mission development and implementation, geophysical algorithm development and related research activities; and organising mission-specific science workshops and conferences;
• Providing scientific support and advice to Earth observation mission teams across the FutureEO, Earth Watch, Copernicus and Operational Meteorology programmes; and maintaining external interfaces with the European Commission and Eumetsat with respect to the corresponding advisory structures;
• Supporting the identification and critical review of scientific challenges, EO user community requirements, and the interests and aspirations of those communities;
• Managing the implementation of independent peer review of mission ideas and concept proposals in response to Agency calls, and the preparation of evaluation reports;
• Communicating research results in connection with ESA’s Earth observation missions, and acting as an ESA ambassador at relevant events such as scientific conferences and during user consultations;
• Preparing, managing, and monitoring external scientific study contracts and related Key Performance Indicators and quarterly reporting.

You will be expected to work closely with the Future Systems, Projects, and Mission Management and Ground Segments Departments to perform delegated activities requiring the Earth Surfaces and Interior Section’s scientific expertise and personnel support.

Technical competencies

Behavioural competencies

Result Orientation
Operational Efficiency
Fostering Cooperation
Relationship Management
Continuous Improvement
Forward Thinking

Education

A PhD in one or more of the cryosphere, ocean and hydrology remote sensing-based Earth science fields is required for this post.

Additional requirements

You should have proven Earth observation based research experience and credibility (at least 5 years) in one or more of the cryosphere, ocean and hydrology remote sensing‐based Earth science fields. You should be familiar with current and future planned satellite missions including active/passive instruments and plans within ESA and relevant international programmes. Particular importance will be attached to your ability to work closely with international experts, relevant scientific organisations and bodies and in a team environment and to your familiarity with the programmatic outlook under ESA’s Earth Explorer, Earth Watch and Copernicus programmes.