Postdoctoral Researcher in Artificial Intelligence Applied to Embedded Processors for Space Missions (M/F)

Job Description

Missions

With the rapidly growing adoption of technologies to automate space mission operations, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms optimized for onboard processors is becoming increasingly critical. The goal is to improve operational efficiency and reduce costs by minimizing human intervention through the ability to automatically make real-time decisions, even in deep space. In this context, we are interested in using AI algorithms for the automatic selection of data from space missions, not all of which can be transmitted to Earth due to telemetry limitations.

This topic is proposed as part of the H2020 ASAP project (Automatics in Space Exploration—https://asap-space.eu/), in which the LPP is responsible for Work Package WP4 “Testbed Software Interface and Validation Tests” in collaboration with the company IngeniArs (https://www.ingeniars.com/). The ASAP project is coordinated by KU Leuven (Belgium) and also includes KTH Stockholm (Sweden), the University of Calabria (Italy), and INAF (Italy).

This research project consists of two parts. The first part will involve defining a test validation plan for several machine learning (ML) algorithms that will be ported and tested by IngeniArs on an embedded processor prototype featuring a graphics processing unit (GPU) integrated into a field-programmable gate array (FPGA). To define this plan, several flight scenarios will be considered, such as those for Earth-orbit space missions and those for distant planetary missions, with different scientific and technical constraints (execution time, data throughput, available memory, power consumption, etc.).

In the second phase, the goal will be to analyze the data resulting from the tests conducted by IngeniArs for each ML algorithm, with the objective of determining the feasibility of each algorithm in flight and studying the advantages and disadvantages of each algorithm in relation to the various flight scenarios. This second phase also includes the preparation of the test validation report, which is the final deliverable of the ASAP project.

Activity

Activities include the following:
- Analysis of profiles for past, current, and future space missions
- Writing the test validation plan
- Developing routines for analyzing data from ML algorithm tests
- Analyzing and interpreting data
- Writing the test validation report
- Publishing scientific results

Your Profil

Skills

- PhD in plasma physics, space physics, or astrophysics, with a record of publishing scientific articles in peer-reviewed journals
- In-depth knowledge of AI/ML algorithms applied to space physics (e.g., Variational Auto-Encoders, Convolutional Neural Networks, etc.)
- Programming experience (MATLAB or Python)
- Experience in data analysis related to the study of space plasmas
- Strong spoken and written English skills required, as well as a meticulous work ethic and the ability to work in a team.

Your Work Environment

The Plasma Physics Laboratory is a CNRS research unit (approximately 115 staff members) located on the Pierre and Marie Curie campus of the Sorbonne University (Paris-Jussieu) and at the École Polytechnique site near Paris, accessible by metro (RER B). It brings together teams specializing in fusion plasmas, cold plasmas, and space plasmas. The successful candidate will join the “Space Plasmas” team, internationally recognized for its expertise in the development of in situ measurement instruments for waves and charged particles, data analysis, and the development of numerical simulations.

Compensation and benefits

Compensation

Between 3 131,32 et 3 569€, depending on experience

Annual leave and RTT

44 jours

Remote Working practice and compensation

Pratique et indemnisation du TT

Transport

Prise en charge à 75% du coût et forfait mobilité durable jusqu’à 300€

About the offer

About the CNRS

The CNRS is a major player in fundamental research on a global scale. The CNRS is the only French organization active in all scientific fields. Its unique position as a multi-specialist allows it to bring together different disciplines to address the most important challenges of the contemporary world, in connection with the actors of change.

CNRS

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