Launching our CubeSat is only the beginning. The real journey starts in space and goes beyond space into each industry and rising opportunity. We stand on the shoulder of giants, and we serve to make a step further. The purpose of a research and development project is to explore the unknowns and convert new discoveries into useful creations.
If you’re curious, motivated, and excited by the idea of contributing to real aerospace engineering and taking a deep dive into one area, we invite you to join our 12‑week Student Research Programme. You will join our Research & Development Department as a High School Engineer/Scientist, contributing directly to blue-sky research or engineering development. Many of the projects will feed into our next generation satellites, and some will contribute to the greater knowledge of human beings.
What You’ll Gain
You will support the core research that shapes our satellite’s design, working alongside our R&D team and receiving guidance from experienced tutors.
Flexible, Supportive Structure
- Weekly ~1 hour online meeting with your assigned tutor
- Flexible research hours to fit your schedule
- Option to work independently or in a small team (Generally Max. 2 students per project; 3 only with special approval)
Weekly Time Commitment
Minimum: 5 hours/week (solo); 4 hours/week (per student in a group)
Expected Total: ~60 hours for solo projects; ~100 hours shared between two students (~50 hours each)
A Community That Supports You
Every Student Engineer receives:
- A technical assessment and project interview to match you with the right level of research depth
- Reserved opportunities to visit our satellite laboratories if the student is in New Zealand
- A business‑grade Microsoft email account provided by PSL
- Your profile displayed on our website as an High School Engineer/Scientist
- A branded jacket/shirt and merchandise pack
Programme Structure (12 Weeks)
Phase 1 — Foundation & Planning (Weeks 1–3)
Build your knowledge base and define your project direction.
You’ll review existing research, set goals, plan your methodology, and create your project schedule.
Phase 2 — Research & Development (Weeks 4–10)
Carry out the core of your project through experiments or simulations.
You’ll test ideas, refine your approach, and document your progress.
Phase 3 — Report & Presentation (Weeks 11–12)
Wrap up your work with a professional research report and a final presentation showcasing your findings and impact
How to Apply
To register, please submit:
- Your CV (using the template provided below)
- A cover letter including:
- Why you are interested in this programme
- Why you believe you would be a strong fit for the project
- Which research area you are interested in (Please select the research area you are interested in from the options provided.)
After receiving your application, you will be invited to complete a technical assessment. Following this, an interview will be scheduled within one week. Please refer to the flowchart below for the detailed admission process.
Disclaimer
This programme has limited places. Applications will close once all places are filled.
The programme may be postponed or cancelled if there are insufficient numbers or no suitable applicants. Students will be notified of any changes as early as possible.