Academic Internship: Investigating the use of satellites and remote sensing to detect illegal waste sites from space - 8210

1
South West
Bath , Bristol
Rivers House Twerton, Horizon House
Staff Grade 2
Internship
Full Time
Science
£18,102 pro-rata
One of the big challenges for the Environment Agency’s Evaluation team is to address a fundamental question about waste crime: what is its true scale? Having a good understanding of the true amount of waste crime is the essential baseline we need to fully address any questions of scale, and our effectiveness in dealing with it.
Quantifying a phenomenon that actively seeks to evade our detection is no easy task, and there are no ‘off the shelf’ methods available that we can apply to solve the problem. It will require an experimental and innovative approach, and one interesting option is the use of satellite remote sensing.
In this work an intern would work between our Evaluation and Geomatics teams to investigate the potential, highlight the key issues, and propose the next steps needed if a satellite based solution is to work. The intern would review existing Earth Observation / Remote Sensing methods and technologies to help us understand their usefulness and limitations. This evidence assessment would inform the Environment Agency about the feasibility of this technology and potentially feed into a UK Space Agency supported proof of concept application competition.
The Environment Agency’s Evidence Assessment and Evaluation Team specialises in compiling data and information from a range of sources to produce reports and assessments about issues such as the state of the environment, the impact of industry on the environment, and the impact of our regulation in achieving the environmental outcomes we seek. Our Geomatics team provides a surveying service to the Environment Agency and provides expertise in geospatial techniques.
The intern will need a good understanding of the theory and practice of remote sensing and subsequent data analysis. You will need an understanding of the technologies used in remote sensing / earth observation, the data and imagery produced, the GIS and other methods used to automate data processing, and their practical use. You might have some specialist knowledge of particular sensing methods such as LiDAR or hyperspectral imaging.
You should also have some desk based secondary research skills, including literature search and interpretation, and be able to write clear and concise reports drawing clear conclusions and recommendations.
Closing Date: 4th June 2018 at 23:55 hours

Please contact Jon Greaves, Senior Advisor, Evidence Assessment and Evaluation, for further information:
jon.greaves.@environment-agency.gov.uk
Tel. 02030250697
Mobile. 07796941600
This post will be based in either Bristol or Bath. Interviews will take place in Bristol w/c 11th June.

04/06/2018, 23:55 hours

Basic Check
Up to 12 weeks. End date 28/09/2018
Scientific Knowledge
The intern will need a good understanding of the theory and practice of remote sensing and subsequent data analysis. You will need an understanding of the technologies used in remote sensing / earth observation, the data and imagery produced, the GIS and other methods used to automate data processing, and their practical use. You might have some specialist knowledge of particular sensing methods such as LiDAR or hyperspectral imaging.
You should also have some desk based secondary research skills, including literature search and interpretation, and be able to write clear and concise reports drawing clear conclusions and recommendations.
Applies Analytical Knowledge and Experience
This internship is a chance for you to apply the analytical skills, knowledge and experience you have gained whilst studying at university.
Environmental Awareness
The Environment Agency works to protect and improve the environment. Acting to reduce the impacts of a changing climate on people and wildlife is at the heart of everything we do. Within England we’re responsible for regulating major industry and waste, treatment of contaminated land, water quality and resources, fisheries, inland river, estuary and harbour navigations, conservation and ecology and managing the risk of flooding. We are looking for a student who is passionate about these issues, and is looking for a career in environmental protection.
If you are applying from the Civil Service please note that the Environment Agency is not a part of HM Civil Service and you would not be a Crown Servant in the event of being appointed. Therefore, you will not be eligible for continuous service. For applicants who currently work in local government or other bodies listed in the Redundancy Payments (Continuity of Employment in Local Government etc) (Modification) Order 1999, you may be eligible for continuous service for the purpose of calculating any future redundancy payment. If you are unsure of your status then you should contact your own HR Team.

We are fully committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce to reflect the communities we serve. We welcome flexible working patterns for all our vacancies, including job share, so please include clearly any information regarding your preferred working arrangements on your application.

We also have a Guaranteed Interview Policy to support those with a disability who are seeking employment. We have committed to guaranteeing an interview to anyone with a disability whose application meets the minimum criteria for the post.

The Environment Agency, as a Non-Departmental Public Body, is committed to providing value for money and utilises Central Government frameworks and contracts for all external recruitment needs. For this reason, we are unable to engage with the market directly through post, email or phone calls . Should you wish to become a support supplier on one of these frameworks or contracts please visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/become-a-crown-commercial-service-supplier/becoming-a-supplier-through-the-crown-commercial-service-what-you-need-to-know for more information.

This Vacancy is closed to applications.