Employer profile

The European Southern Observatory's (ESO) mission is to design, build and operate the world's most advanced ground-based optical and infrared observatories, and to foster international collaboration for astronomy. Our vision is to advance humanity's understanding of the universe by working with and for the astronomy community, providing it with world-class telescopes and instruments. 

Why work for us
You would be working together with our >700 staff members and thousands of collaborators in Europe, Chile, Australia and beyond, developing the largest optical telescope in the world, collaborating on high-tech instruments for our three observatories, operating and maintaining them 24/7, supporting astronomers in their observations, while you carry out research in astrophysics and R&D. You would help us ensure that ESO remains at the forefront of astronomical investigations, infrastructure and instrumentation. 

Training and development
ESO promotes a positive learning culture to support its mission, values and goals. Our comprehensive learning and development package includes management and leadership training, behavioural and technical skills training, and language training. We strive to foster a work environment where all staff have opportunities to develop their skills and competencies. We encourage our staff to proactively manage their career advancement and facilitate personal career development in partnership with them.

Postgraduate opportunities
We offer:

• Five- to six-month internships for students at the end of their university studies (Master-level or possibly Bachelor-level) in astrophysics, engineering and science communication;
• PhD studentships and postdoctorate fellowships in astrophysics and engineering for up to three years.

These programmes are open to all nationalities with a preference for applicants from ESO member states.

What we are looking for
For our postgraduate schemes we are looking for dynamic young individuals with a good deal of team spirit, curiosity and eagerness to learn, who can bring new ideas to our R&D programme. For our staff members, we are looking for motivated, experienced collaborators at various career levels, in different fields, including engineering, administration, finance, procurement, human resources. Astronomers need a PhD, engineers a university diploma. 

Location
Germany, Chile

Number of employees
c.700

Main areas of research
Engineering (all fields) and astronomy

Positions recently recruited for
We have recently recruited engineers (e.g. software, electronic, electrical, optical, mechanical), astronomers and administrative personnel

How to apply
Please visit our website www.awe.co.uk/careers for further information

Contact
Tel +49 089 32006 0
vacancy@eso.org
www.eso.org