Space Placements in Industry: FAQs for Students

What is SPIN?

The Space Placements in INdustry scheme seeks to provide project placements within companies and research organisations for registered students wishing to undertake a short-term placement within the space sector. It is recognised that all high tech industry sectors need bright and motivated graduates, particular from STEM disciplines in order to grow their business areas, and the space sector is no different. Through SPIN, the sector is ensuring that the brightest and best people are encouraged to focus their attention on space for their careers.

Application

The Catapult is proud to be hosting this year’s SPIN placements through the Applied platform. If you are interested in a placement, simply click on that placement card to start your journey through the Applied website – this includes the full job description and the beginning of the application process.

Please note that applications will only be accepted through the Applied platform, applications sent via email to either the Catapult or the host organisation will be not be accepted.

Help with your application

If you need any assistance with your application, please speak to your university careers office. The Satellite Applications Catapult will only be able to help you with technical issues relating to the Applied system, they will not be able to assist you in answering the questions or with your CV.

Can I apply for more than one placement?

You are welcome to apply for multiple placements but you will only be able to accept one opportunity.

Can I apply again if I accepted a SPIN Internship last year?

Yes.

Eligibility

Applicants for the programme must be registered with a university at the time of application but can be in any year of their undergraduate or postgraduate studies.

SPINtern Benefits

A paid work placement that will give you a very tangible experience to add to your CV.
Unique induction event which will give you a perspective of the active and vibrant space sector in the UK.
Showcase event which will enable you to promote yourself and the skills you’ve learnt to a wider community of potential employers.
Learn first-hand the skills that employers really want.

SPIN Induction Event

Our Induction Events will be held in June 2024. They are open to SPINterns Host/employer organisations and University tutors. The events give an exciting overview of all the activities and opportunities in the UK Space Sector. They are also an opportunity to connect with fellow SPINterns and learn about other organisations in the sector.

Attendance is considered a key part of the SPIN experience and students are expected to attend.

Edinburgh
4 June: 9.30am – 4pm at the Bayes Centre, Edinburgh (Room G.03)
Refreshments, breakfast pastries & lunch provided.

Harwell
24 June: 9.30am-4pm at Catapult Electron Building, Harwell (Jupiter & Saturn)
Refreshments, breakfast pastries & lunch provided.

Please discuss travel expenses with your host organisation. Travel expenses cannot be paid for by the Satellite Applications Catapult.

SPIN Poster and Showcase Event

It is a requirement of the programme that every SPINtern produces a poster (details will be confirmed nearer the time) of the project during their placement. The Employer should ensure this is completed during their time in their organisation. The poster will be displayed at the Showcase Event which is usually held in the Autumn (details to be confirmed nearer the time). During the Showcase event SPINterns are also required to give a 2 minute pitch about their project (poster). This is a fantastic opportunity to really demonstrate what the SPINtern has achieved during their placement and practice the skills they’ve learnt which will be very valuable to future employers.

Checklist for Applicants

Successful SPINterns are expected to comply with the following checklist, regardless of the host organisation. Please read through this list carefully and make sure you are willing and able to make the commitment and follow through to the best of your ability. If you are unable to comply, you may find that you have placed yourself in a position not to be paid.

Participation and attendance by host and student is encouraged at the SPIN Showcase to be held in the Autumn of 2024.
Completion of any relevant forms.
A commitment to perform the required tasks as set out by the host organisation within the specified time scale, within the terms and conditions set out by the host organisation, and to the best of your ability.
Completion of security clearance or documentation as required by the host organisation.
Participation and attendance at Space Industry Induction on 4 June in Edinburgh, Scotland, and 24 June 2024 in Harwell, England.
Completion of project, poster and report, agreed with the host organisation before you depart the organisation.

How long should placements be?

At least 8 weeks.

What is a “Project”?

Projects can vary from organisation to organisation. It may be a piece of research or a small project that would otherwise not be done. It may be working as part of a team, or something more independent. The more time spent scoping the project at the beginning, the easier it is for the SPINtern to hit the ground running, and less support the host will need to provide throughout the project.

When should the project be carried out?

The Induction Days are on 4 and 24 June 2024 and so it is often easy to start on either of these date as long as it works for both student and organisation. In some circumstances, projects may be made available at different times of the year, please discuss with your host organisation.

Will the SPINterns be paid?

Yes, these are paid placements and the intern should be paid a minimum of the National Living Wage (2024= £11.44 per hour, equating for a 37.5hr week to £3,432 for 8 weeks). This should enable the SPINtern to travel to their place of work, and potentially live away from home or university.

Return to the SPIN homepage >>

To Innovate for a Better World Empowered by Space.