AI/ML Engineering Intern: System 1 Models for Reactive Space Operations

Toulouse, Occitanie. Posted 2 days ago

The role

You will review fast, lightweight "System 1" AI models and compare them with the heavier models used today. You will prototype them on satellite reactivity scenarios, such as detection-to-tasking loops.

What you will do

Review state-of-the-art System 1 models and compare them with System 2 models used today, including partner models
Map where System 1 models could add value in operational chains for reactivity use cases
Define benchmark scenarios with the team, from single-satellite loops to two-satellite tip & cue, and possibly multi-satellite
Set latency budget, accuracy needs and execution context for each scenario
Build datasets and evaluation sets from Loft data, partner outputs and open datasets
Train or fine-tune System 1 models and benchmark them against System 2 baselines on latency, accuracy, compute footprint and ease of use
Prototype an end-to-end reactive loop, possibly a hybrid where System 1 triggers and System 2 validates
Document results and production recommendations, and deliver a final demo

Required qualifications

Final-year engineering or Master's student specialized in ML, deep learning or computer vision
Solid Python and PyTorch skills, with good software engineering practices
Strong understanding of the state of the art in LLM, VLM and Reinforcement Learning
Practical experience training neural networks (language models or computer vision) and/or manipulating LLMs

Nice to have

Model optimization (quantization, distillation, edge inference)
Exposure to satellite or geospatial data
Multi-agent or distributed systems experience
Genuine interest in space

Benefits

Gratification of €1,300 gross per month
Lunch vouchers (tickets restaurant)
Sustainable mobility package (forfait mobilité durable)
International environment with 20+ nationalities
Mentoring program throughout the internship

Before you apply

Resume must be attached in English

About the company

Loft provides governments, companies and research institutions with a fast, simple way to deploy missions in orbit. It integrates, launches and operates spacecraft, with more than 30 missions flown and a fleet on track to reach 30 satellites by 2027.