Location:
European Astronaut Centre, Cologne, Germany.
ESA's Exploration Science Programme: Advancing Knowledge, Inspiring Innovation
The European Space Agency's Exploration Science Programme, a cornerstone of its Explore2040 strategy, invites scientists, researchers and innovators to join us in pushing the boundaries of human knowledge and technological capabilities. Our programme uniquely balances exploration-focused science, essential for enabling future human missions beyond Earth, with exploration-enabled science that leverages our capabilities for groundbreaking research across disciplines.
From the microgravity environment of low Earth orbit to the dusty plains of Mars, we offer unparalleled opportunities to conduct cutting-edge research. Our comprehensive approach spans multiple destinations – including the International Space Station, future commercial LEO platforms, the lunar Gateway, the Moon's surface and Mars – providing a diverse array of research environments and challenges.
Our team and mission
Within ESA’s Directorate of Human and Robotic Exploration Programmes (HRE), the Human Exploration Science Office has the mission to advance human exploration into deep space, harvesting unique knowledge that can improve life and health in space and on Earth. The main objectives of the team are to better understand the fundamental mechanisms and responses to the different deep space stressors on biological and physiological processes; to optimise and personalise countermeasures to manage spaceflight adaptation and mitigate the risks of deep space; to push the frontiers of habitability to advance sustainable human exploration in deep space; and to foster and inspire translation of space-acquired scientific knowledge to address terrestrial challenges.
You should have recently completed, or be close to completing a PhD in a related technical or scientific discipline. Preference will be given to applications submitted by candidates who have received their PhD within the past five years.