Intern – Physiology & Performance Optimisation for Female Astronauts

About the role

This internship is part of the Space Medicine Team at the European Astronaut Centre. You will focus on the physiology and performance optimisation of female astronauts, investigating how the menstrual cycle influences training adaptation, recovery and injury risk.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive literature research on hormonal fluctuations and their impact on performance and injury risk for female astronauts.
• Identify gaps in current fitness‑assessment protocols and contribute to evidence‑based guideline development.
• Collaborate with exercise specialists, medical doctors, physiologists and engineers to translate scientific findings into practical recommendations.
• Support the Exercise Team in preparing training and rehabilitation strategies for ground‑based and in‑flight missions.

Required profile

• Enrolled university student, preferably at master’s level, in a relevant field (e.g., physiology, sports science, medicine).
• Ability to work for the full internship period while remaining enrolled at your university.
• Strong analytical and scientific writing skills.

Required skills

What we offer

• Hands‑on experience in a multicultural, multidisciplinary environment at ESA.
• Insight into space‑flight exercise science and astronaut health management.
• Opportunity to contribute to pioneering research that supports future female astronauts.