PhD Research Position - Astrometric Pipeline Development for Near-Earth Asteroids - Job Opportunity at Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales (CNES)

Meudon, France
Full-time
Entry-level
Posted: February 3, 2025
On-site
EUR 30,000-35,000 per year (standard French doctoral contract)

Benefits

Doctoral research position with prestigious space agency
Access to cutting-edge astronomical data and facilities
Collaboration with international research teams
36-month funded position

Key Responsibilities

Develop and validate high-accuracy astrometric pipeline for NEA tracking
Process and analyze wide-field CCD camera data from large telescopes
Implement advanced corrections for Differential Chromatic Refraction
Utilize Gaia stellar catalogs for improved astrometric solutions
Contribute to space agency databases and analysis tools

Requirements

Education

Master's degree in Astronomy, Physics, or Mathematics

Required Skills

Strong computational skills in scientific programming (Julia, Python, Fortran, C++) Astrometry and astronomical data processing Statistical analysis Database management
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Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Industry Trends

The field of NEO detection and tracking is experiencing unprecedented growth with the upcoming LSST and NEO Surveyor missions Gaia DR4's release in 2026 will revolutionize astrometric precision, creating new opportunities in planetary science Integration of machine learning with traditional astronomical techniques is becoming increasingly important for handling large datasets

Role Significance

Small research team within LESIA laboratory, collaborating with international partners
Entry-level research position with significant potential for scientific impact and publication opportunities

Key Projects

Development of next-generation astrometric processing pipeline Integration of Gaia DR4 data with ground-based observations Enhancement of NEO tracking accuracy for space agency missions

Success Factors

Strong foundation in computational astronomy and statistical analysis Ability to work with large astronomical datasets Understanding of astrometric calibration techniques Effective collaboration with international research teams

Market Demand

High demand for specialists in astrometric processing and NEO tracking, particularly with the increasing focus on planetary defense and asteroid mining initiatives

Important Skills

Critical Skills

Advanced programming skills for pipeline development Understanding of astrometric principles and techniques Statistical analysis and error correction methodologies

Beneficial Skills

Machine learning applications in astronomy Experience with large astronomical surveys Knowledge of orbital mechanics

Unique Aspects

Direct involvement with Gaia mission data exploitation
Connection to planetary defense initiatives
Integration with major space agency programs

Career Growth

3-4 years for PhD completion, with potential for immediate postdoctoral or industry positions

Potential Next Roles

Research Scientist in Space Agency Postdoctoral Researcher Data Science Specialist in Astronomy Astrodynamics Engineer

Company Overview

Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales (CNES)

CNES is France's leading space agency and a major player in European space research and exploration

Premier national space agency with strong international collaborations and research funding
Central role in European space science community with significant influence on international projects
Research-focused environment emphasizing scientific excellence and international collaboration
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