Intern in the Future Missions and Architecture Department - Microwave Instruments Section

European Space Agency - ESA; Noordwijk; On-site; EUR 10,000 - 15,000; Full time

Job summary

European Space Agency (ESA) invites university students to join the Future Missions and Architecture Department, Microwave Instruments Section, at ESTEC in Noordwijk, Netherlands, for a performance analysis internship on the Sentinel-6 Next Generation project.

You will extend and improve the performance software tool used for engineering and geophysical parameters, and support the study team with analysis and comparison of different performance indicators.

Qualifications

• You must be a university student, preferably in your final or second-to-last year of your Master's degree.
• You must be able to prove enrollment at your university for the entire duration of the internship.

Responsibilities

• Support the Sentinel-6 Next Generation performance analysis efforts.
• Extend and improve the performance software tool for engineering and geophysical parameters.
• Assist the study team with analysis and comparison of different performance parameters.

Skills

Python

Radar signal processing

Radar altimeters

Education

Master's degree (relevant field)

Job description

Intern in the Future Missions and Architecture Department - Microwave Instruments Section

Job Requisition ID: 21178

Date Posted: 1 November 2026

Closing Date: 30 November 2026 23:59 CET/CEST

Publication Method: External Only

Type of Appointment (learn more)

Directorate: Earth Observation Programmes

Workplace: Noordwijk, NL

Location: ESTEC, Noordwijk, Netherlands

Our team and mission

The Microwave Instruments Section is part of the Future Missions and Instruments Division, Future Missions and Architecture Department, Directorate of Earth Observation Programmes.

Within the Division, the Section is responsible for the definition, engineering, technology breadboarding and pre-development of active and passive microwave instruments for future Earth Observation research missions, e.g. Earth Explorers and Missions of Opportunity, and operational missions, e.g. Earth Watch, Copernicus and meteorology missions.

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

Topic of the internship: Performance Analysis Support for Sentinel-6 Next Generation

Sea level rise is a powerful climate indicator, since it is the result of changes occurring in Earth's climate system. Further, sea level rise poses a great threat to coastal communities and is therefore an important global concern for governments and policymakers. Copernicus Sentinel-6 first generation is the radar altimetry reference mission to provide sea-surface height measurements until at least 2030. To continue this legacy, the Sentinel-6 Next Generation mission is currently being developed.

You will support the Sentinel-6 Next Generation international development by extending and improving the performance software tool for engineering and geophysical parameters. Furthermore, you will support the study team with the analysis and comparison of different performance parameters.

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 in your final or second-to-last year of university course 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.

Knowledge and background in the following areas is an asset:

• Python;
• radar signal processing;
• radar altimeters.

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 [e-mail].

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, Cyprus, 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.

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