Permanent contract | Belval

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.

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

The Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST) is a leading Research and Technology Organisation (RTO) that drives innovation for the economy and society in Luxembourg and beyond. With cutting-edge expertise in Natural, Built, Industrial environments, Space, AI, Security and defence technologies. LIST bridges scientific excellence and applied research to design solutions that address real-world challenges and create positive impact.

Do you want to know more about ESRIC and LIST? Check our websites: https://www.esric.lu/ and https://www.list.lu/

How will you contribute?

As part of a new phase of growth for ESRIC, we are seeking a Head of Group for the Space Resources Innovation Ecosystem group. This group promotes innovation within and outside of ESRIC through a unique combination of programmes, infrastructure and initiatives, including programmes to support early-stage ventures in space resources and the operation of infrastructure such as Europe’s largest Dusty Thermal Vacuum Chamber. The group works closely with ESRIC’s strategic partner ESA across many of its activities. We are looking for a Head of Group with proven experience of leading space resources innovation initiatives, and who understand the specific needs of this emerging sector and the central role that ESRIC can occupy.

Reporting to the Head of ESRIC, the Head of the Space Resources Innovation Ecosystem will be engaged in the definition, execution and implementation of projects and programmes that lead innovation in space resources, both commercial and technical (e.g. increasing TRL).    In coordination with the Head of ESRIC, you will define the group’s roadmap and its objectives, and manage the current and future project portfolio. You will manage the group’s budget and resources, including team allocation on projects. You will guide the development of competencies of the group, aligned with the overall objectives and mission of ESRIC. Management and leadership skills are a must, in addition to sound multi-project and/or programme management skills.

You will lead a dynamic team of engineers, technical experts and experts in commercialisation and community management for space resources, and help to grow the team, and ESRIC, by attracting projects and supporting innovation. 

Your mission will include:

• Definition of the group goals in alignment with ESRIC strategy in coordination with the Head of ESRIC. Definition, implementation, and monitoring of short/mid/long-term plans to achieve goals.

• Management of the group’s budget and use of assigned resources.

• Management of the group’s project portfolio, a sustainable financial impact and a healthy cycle of new/ongoing/to-be-ended projects.

• Building collaborative relationships with the current and future project partners and stakeholders.

• Responsibility for talent management processes, promoting and monitoring the development of the team's competencies and careers in line with the current and future needs of the group and the unit.

• Ensuring the group respects LIST values, ethical standards, research integrity, and internal rules.

• Ensuring that the work environment of their team remains safe and healthy.

• Representing ESRIC and LIST nationally and internationally.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• A Masters-level degree in engineering, business or a related field

• At least 10 years of experience in the space sector, either in research or a relevant industry

• Experience of working in and with the space resources sector

• Proven experience of promoting innovation by supporting early-stage ventures in space resources through business and technology development

• Experience of working with multiple stakeholders to develop novel services, support and initiatives for internal and external partners (e.g. use of research infrastructure, organising events)

• A proven track record of working with industry partners on innovation projects, including knowledge of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR)

• Experience of managing space agency-funded projects, specifically ESA.

• Sound knowledge of the latest knowledge, developments, and innovations in space resources prospecting and technology development.

• Proven management and leadership skills.

• Strong competencies in project management and work organization.

• Experience in budget realisation and reporting.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

• Proven ability to work with and manage a group of highly skilled professionals with a broad range of cultural and professional background and to foster a collaborative work environment.

• Fluency in English, both oral and written. Other relevant languages are an asset.

Your 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 60 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 (not remote) and access to Digital lunch vouchers

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

Please apply ONLINE formally through the HR system. Applications by email will not be considered.

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.

• LIST 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, ethnicity, 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.

• As part of our recruitment process, the selected candidate might be subject to a background check in accordance with applicable laws and institutional policies. Further checks and restrictions might apply to candidates in compliance with export controls requirements

• For the purposes of the position and in accordance with applicable legislation, the successful candidate may be requested to provide a recent criminal record certificate.