DC-26002 HEAD OF IN SITU RESOURCE UTILISATION GROUP

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/

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

Permanent contract | Belval

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

How will you contribute?

As part of a new phase of growth for ESRIC, we are seeking a Head of Group for the In Situ Resource Utilisation group. This group focuses on the prospecting, mapping and characterisation of resources in space, currently focused on the Moon. In addition, the group focuses on developing technology that will produce usable resources in space, including oxygen from lunar regolith and water purification. We are looking for an experienced researcher with proven expertise in space resources research and development to lead this group.

Reporting to the Head of ESRIC, the Head of the In Situ Resource Utilisation Group will be engaged in the definition and execution of high-quality research, development and innovation (RDI) projects related to finding and using resources in space. 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 researchers, PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers, and help to grow the team, and ESRIC, by attracting projects and funding.

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

• PhD in planetary science, geology or engineering
• At least 10 years of experience post-PhD, either in research or a relevant industry
• Proven experience in the research and development of space resources processes and/or technology, for example mapping, measuring and characterising space resources, oxygen extraction from lunar regolith, volatiles mapping, extraction and purification.
• A high-quality publication record in a relevant field
• A proven track record in attracting funding for RDI projects in space resources or an adjacent relevant field.
• Experience of working with space agency-funded projects is considered an advantage.
• 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.