Are you the one to make our scientific instrument work perfectly in space?

SRON's mission is to bring about breakthroughs in international space research. Therefore the institute develops pioneering technology and advanced space instruments, and uses them to pursue fundamental astrophysical research, Earth science and exoplanetary research.

SPICA is an M-class ESA mission candidate and has recently been selected for a 3 year study phase after which it may be selected for launch. SRON, in its role as Principal Investigator, is responsible for the SAFARI instrument onboard SPICA. SAFARI is a cryogenic grating spectrometer with Transition Edge Sensor (TES) bolometer arrays read out by Frequency Domain Multiplexed (FDM) electronics. For the study team we are hiring an

AIV and Calibration Scientist / manager (f/m)

• To lead a team of up to 12 engineers throughout the design of test equipment as well as calibration and test of a space instrument
• To implement within your team:
• A System AIV philosophy and plan, including qualification, calibration and verification
• Implement the verification procedures and structure for the project
• Design and purchase of two test cryostats simulating the relevant space environment
• Tests to show compliance with the instrument requirements
• Provide technical input for the satellite AIT to JAXA and ESA
• Author scientific publications and present your work at international conferences

• Experience in development and verification of space instrumentation
• Experience with Systems Engineering
• Good communicator and listener
• Good verbal and written communication skills (in English)
• Team player, works well as part of a diverse team
• Ability to work in a continuously changing environment
• Ability to identify the major issues, obtain relevant technical information from the team and formulate solutions