We are the European Space Agency. Our mission is the peaceful exploration and use of space for the benefit of everyone. We watch over Earth, develop and launch inspiring and unique space projects, train astronauts and push the boundaries of science and technology, seeking answers to the big questions about the Universe. We are a family of scientists, engineers and business professionals from all over Europe working together in a diverse and multinational environment. We are dedicated to united space in Europe and united Europe in space.

There are six different programmes open to students and recent graduates who are nationals of one of the ESA Member States or Cooperating States:

• Internships are available while you are still studying.
• The Young Graduate Trainee Programme is for students who are about to graduate from a Master’s level course, or for those who have recently graduated.
• National Trainee Programmes are similar to the Young Graduate Trainee programme and are run by several national governments, also targeting those who are either about to graduate, or have recently graduated, with a Master’s degree.
• The Junior Professional Programme is open to graduates of a Master’s level degree programme with two to three years of professional experience.
• Researchers can apply for ESA to co-fund space-related PhD and post-doc research activities.
• Post docs can apply to the Research Fellowship Programme.

In addition, if you are still at university and interested in learning more about space, check out the ESA Academy. There are many interesting training courses on offer as well as the possibility to work on a hands-on space project.

ESA is an international organisation with 22 Member States. By coordinating the financial and intellectual resources of its members, it can undertake programmes and activities far beyond the scope of any single European country.

In short, ESA’s job is to draw up the European space programme and carry it through. ESA’s programmes are designed to find out more about Earth, its immediate space environment, our Solar System and the Universe, as well as to develop satellite-based technologies and services, and to promote European industries. ESA also works closely with space organisations outside Europe and certain ESA programmes, such as Galileo and Copernicus, are funded by the EU.

There are around 2500 staff working for ESA, from all its Member States and include scientists, engineers, information technology specialists and administrative personnel.