Fixed-term contract | 24 months | Belvaux

Are you passionate about space resources? So are we! Come and join us

The European Space Resources Innovation Centre (ESRIC) is a joint initiative of the Luxembourg Space Agency (LSA), the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST). ESRIC aims to become an internationally recognized centre of expertise for scientific, technical, business and economic aspects related to the use of space resources for human and robotic exploration, as well as for a future in-space economy.

You ‘d like to contribute as a researcher? Join us!

ESRIC exists in a rapidly changing international environment. Being part of this new adventure and contributing to build successful activities with ESRIC’s partners is common to all of ESRIC’s team.

ESRIC is implemented as a department of LIST, with a dedicated governance structure that includes its partners LSA, ESA and LIST. It is conducting activities along three main areas: Research and testing facilities, Business support and incubation, and Community management.

The primary objective of ESRIC is to research, develop and improve the understanding and performance of processes enabling the utilization of space resources with an initial focus on the Moon.

To know more about ESRIC activities: www.esric.lu

How will you contribute?

As part of a new phase of growth for ESRIC, supported by the FNR PEARL programme “Solutions for the Sustainable and Responsible use of Space Resources”, this project aims to improve lunar material-handling equipment by creating innovative modular designs which can be recycled or reused in-situ, with the aim to enhance the sustainability and adaptability of future long-lasting lunar missions. The goal is to create more reliable, long-lasting lunar equipment that aligns with a sustainable, closed-loop manufacturing model. By prioritizing interoperability among different systems this project will aim to reduce waste on the Moon. Concepts of flexibility and adaptability are considered beneficial for the evolving needs of lunar missions, supporting a dynamic presence on the lunar surface.

This project will evaluate current proposed systems for resource extraction and identify systems and sub-systems that can be modularised. This will be achieved through both modelling and simulation at the system level, definition and identification of modular units and interfaces within the system, and design and testing of a modular unit as a case study.

Your mission includes:

• manage the daily research work allowing the smooth progress of the project
• contribute to other research projects within ESRIC where appropriate
• dissemination of research outcomes in peer-reviewed journals and at international conferences
• enhancing the group's recognition by developing scientific and technological cooperation networks and partnerships with industries and institutions, both within space resources and interdisciplinary 
• collaborate with other institutes and industry partners
• support PhD candidates

Is your profile described below? Are you our future colleague? Apply now!

As to join us, you:

• Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Geoscience or a related field.
• Experience with modelling and simulation and/or systems engineering
• Experience of space resources technologies or systems would be highly beneficial
• Good communication skills and ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams including industrial partners
• Detail-oriented approach to documenting the design process, iterations, and test analytics.
• Excellent job autonomy in the management of technical, time management and organizational issues.
• Excellent English, both written and oral.

What ESRIC and LIST can offer

ESRIC has an ambitious development plan over the next years, adding further partners and expanding its activities. The team that you will be joining is expected to grow quickly with the possibility to see ESRIC evolve towards a self-standing entity in a few years.

Your ESRIC and LIST benefits

• An organization with a passion for impact and strong RDI partnerships in Luxembourg and Europe that works on responsible and independent research projects
• Sustainable by design, empowering our belief that we play an essential role in paving the way to a green society
• Innovative infrastructures and exceptional labs occupying more than 5,000 square metres, including innovations in all that we do
• An environment encouraging curiosity, innovation and entrepreneurship in all areas
• Personalized learning programme to foster our staff’s soft and technical skills
• Multicultural and international work environment with more than 50 nationalities represented in our workforce
• Diverse and inclusive work environment empowering our people to fulfil their personal and professional ambitions
• Gender-friendly environment with multiple actions to attract, develop and retain women in science
• 32 days’ paid annual leave, 11 public holidays, 13-month salary, statutory health insurance
• Flexible working hours, home working policy and access to lunch vouchers

Has this vacancy caught your interest?

Apply online

Your application must include:

• A motivation letter oriented towards the position and detailing your experience;
• A scientific CV with contact details;
• List of publications (and patents, if applicable);
• Contact details of 2 references.

Application procedure and conditions

We kindly request applicants to provide their nationality for statistical purposes only, as part of our commitment to promoting diversity and ensuring equal opportunities in our workforce. This information will be kept confidential and will not be used for any discriminatory purposes.

ESRIC is dedicated to maintaining an inclusive work environment and is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to attracting, hiring, and retaining a diverse workforce. All applicants will be considered for employment without discrimination based on national origin, race, colour, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, religion, age, or disability.

Applications will be continuously reviewed until the position is filled. An assessment committee will thoroughly evaluate applications, adhering to guidelines designed to ensure equal opportunities. The primary criteria for selection will be the alignment of the applicant's existing skills and expertise with the requirements mentioned above.