Senior Research Fellow(s)

The European Space Policy Institute 

The European Space Policy Institute is looking to employ one or more Senior Research Fellow(s) at the premises of the Institute in Vienna, starting in 2024.  

ESPI is the leading European think tank devoted to space policy. The Institute’s mission is to promote European space policy on a global level by facilitating an active forum for the analysis and discussion of European needs, capabilities and long-term prospects in space activities.  

As a Senior Research Fellow, you will be immersed in a fast-paced growth environment, joining a culturally diverse team with varied academic backgrounds. We are characterised by a strong appreciation of new initiatives & impact-driven objectives, paired with a commitment to rigour, continuous learning, and team-wide exchange where the best ideas prevail.  

About the role

Space is undergoing a transformative change in market dynamics, technology developments, and policy implications. As a Senior Research Fellow, you are responsible for developing insights and maintaining the Institute’s position at the cutting edge of analysing these advancements and evolution across the following domains defined in ESPI2040:  

• Green & Sustainable Societies;
• Security & Defence;
• Exploration & Science;
• Space as an Asset;
• Industry, Innovation, Finance, Workforce.

Depending on your experience, you will be tasked to both work as part of project teams as well as to lead and develop projects with teams of 1-4 additional Research Fellows or Research Interns, notably: 

• delivery of high-quality expert advice regarding space policy, the space industry, space operations, market assessments, public budget evolution, and non-space policies impacting the space sector;
• concepts, studies and continuous content output in support of program implementers and policy-makers;
• strategic direction and organisation of high-level events, workshops, and educational courses;
• managing projects including contract, budget, and deliverable management;
• quality assurance and compliance with project terms.

Further, as part of our Research Team, you contribute to the strategic orientation and further development of the Institute, participating in our Engagement activities and Key Partner Management efforts.  

Qualifications and competencies 

• A Master’s degree that relates to the Institute’s work and mission (e.g. Political Science, Law, Engineering, Physics, Economics, Finance, Data Science, Technology & Innovation, Climate Policy);
• at least 5 years of relevant work experience (Consultancy, Industry, Think Tank, Public Sector);
• excellent analytical or writing skills, ability to work in teams, and inter-cultural competence;
• demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the space sector and the space policy landscape;
• flexibility, impact-oriented thinking and excellent organisational skills;
• excellent command of English, written and oral.

Application process

We only accept applications by EU citizens or non-EU citizens holding residence and employment permits in Austria. To apply for this position, please send: 

• a copy of your CV in .pdf format,
• a motivation letter in .pdf format,

to vacancies@espi.or.at with the subject: “ESPI Senior Research Fellow” before 15 February 2024, 23:59 CET. Please do not submit educational records or certificates at this stage. 

The position is full-time (40 hours/week) with flexible working conditions. The advertised salary is € 56,000 gross per year (paid 14 times a year). An additional bonus payment is subject to the Management’s decision and the Institute’s overall performance. Candidates with more demonstrated experience can qualify for higher salary bands subject to negotiation. 

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