The Adelaide Graduate Research School (AGRS) and Lunar Outpost Oceania are partnering to create 3 remote internship opportunities for University of Adelaide PhD students, to contribute to various projects. 

Lunar Outpost is an advanced technology company with a focus on developing technologies that have both Earth and space applications. Lunar Outpost plans on filling an important role in the expanding space industry and is currently using its technical expertise to solve a variety of technological challenges.

The organisation is currently seeking PhD students to undertake the following research projects commencing from the second week of August and remotely in Adelaide:

• Terrain and Dynamics Model for a Lunar Rover: This study will simulate a dynamics model of various passive suspension systems over generated terrain that is indicative of the Lunar South Circumpolar Region. The outcomes of this computer simulation will be verified using the University of Adelaide EXTERRES Rover testing Pits, simulating as many of the terrain features as possible within the EXTERRES Lab capability.
• Single Event Effects: Investigate quantification of, and design for, the radiation environment for a Lunar mission, particularly with respect to Single Event Effects. This may include developing probability models of the various effects and identifying suitable design practices given particular mission goals and risk profile.
• Camera Research: Research and evaluate cameras suitable for imaging the lunar south pole. Low solar angle, shade, regolith, and un-known terrain are some of the potential challenges in selecting a vision system for the lunar south pole

The successful candidates will undertake a minimum of 60 FTE business days of research and development with the organisation. The AGRS will support eligible students with a research internship scholarship (for 60 business days at the standard RTP rate). 

Expected research outcomes for the student may include:

• Engaging in solving a real-world problem requiring a real solution
• Assisting the organisation in undertaking vital research activities to support their activities
• Gaining professional industry experience

The selected applicant, their supervisor, and the industry focal contact person or internship supervisor will have the opportunity to discuss the nature of research and development activities and internship arrangements in greater detail post-selection.

Eligibility:  The PhD student must be:  

• within the first 18 months of their candidature,  
• willing to undertake the research internship for a minimum duration of 60 FTE business days,  
• making satisfactory progress, and  
• undertaking research in an area aligned with the proposed research internship project .

More information about University of Adelaide's Research Internships is available here.

Application Process:  To apply, please email the following documents to hdr_internships@adelaide.edu.au (HDR Internships Team) with the subject line – Lunar Outpost Oceania Internships:  

• Resume
• Cover Letter (of not more than 2 pages) outlining your interest in the internship and describing how your research area aligns with the proposed field of research internship.  

Please note that applications will be considered on a rolling basis and the advertisement may be closed earlier if a suitable applicant is shortlisted for a particular project prior to the listed closing date. Furthermore, if shortlisted, a meeting is likely to be organised between the student, their supervisor and the organisation's focal contact person within a week of shortlisting. Students may consider discussing their internship plans with their Principal Supervisor in anticipation of that.