9 months fixed contract | 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’s mission is to be 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 is conducting activities in 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 find out more about ESRIC activities: www.esric.lu

How will you contribute?

You will be a part of the team focusing on processes and systems related to space resources. Specific areas of activity currently in ESRIC include resource characterisation, beneficiation and production of water, oxygen and metals from lunar regolith. This role is specifically focused on the continued development and testing of a water purification prototype and the development of new experimental systems suitable for testing in ESRIC’s laboratory vacuum chamber, for example related to regolith handling.

You will be responsible for the experimental programme, testing and data analysis from the prototype including working with ESRIC’s team and industrial partners. You will support other research activity at ESRIC by working with PhD and postdoctoral researchers to develop and run experiments. You will analyse data and disseminate your results in peer-reviewed journal articles and conference presentations.

As postdoctoral researcher, you will carry out your own research in space resources, while supporting the research effort across ESRIC in line with our mission to become a world leading centre of excellence in space resources. You will join a dynamic team of researchers, supervise PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers. 

Your mission includes:

• The development and implementation of an experimental programme for a water purification prototype.
• Development of technology suitable for testing under vacuum related to lunar regolith handling.
• Dissemination of results in peer-reviewed journals and at conferences.
• Enhancing the group's recognition by developing scientific and technological cooperation networks and partnerships with industries and institutions.
• Contributing actively to the development of Research & Technology activities in ESRIC.

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 specifically in space resources research and development would be highly beneficial.
• A publication record in a relevant field in line with experience.
• Good communication skills and ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams including industrial partners.
• Excellent 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. It is at the forefront of an emerging field that will shape the future of space exploration.

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?

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.