France Alumni Day: 3 questions to Marion Burnichon, ISAE-SUPAERO alumni 2021 from the Master in Aerospace Engineering

ID card:

• Name: Marion Burnichon
• Background: Space systems
• Nationality : French
• Country of Residence : Netherlands
• Job: Young Graduate Trainee in Gateway Operations
• Industry: Space
• Studies at ISAE-SUPAERO : Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering
• Graduation Year: 2021

Can you tell us about your background?

I graduated from McGill University in Montreal with a Bachelor’s degree in physics and research in astrophysics. My universe revolved around space and the stars. While doing research, I realized that you really have to be there at the right time to make THE great discovery in science... That got me thinking, and I wanted to go down a path where I’d have a bit more control, so I decided to study aerospace at ISAE-SUPAERO.

I therefore did a Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering specializing in Space Systems, including research in mission analysis alongside Stéphanie Lizy-Destrez on the three-body problem. At this point, I discovered what I really liked: being able to combine physics and maths. After my internship at Airbus and my graduation, I moved to England to work as a flight dynamics engineer at One Web Satellites, where I worked on consoles to operate satellites, and in particular on anti-collision maneuvers. I’m currently following ESA’s Young Graduate Traineeships program. I split my time between operations for the Gateway moon station and mission analysis for all lunar missions.

Why did you decide to pursue an international career?

It’s a very natural path for me, as I grew up abroad, in England and Spain. The choice wasn’t necessarily to have an international career, but rather to be open to all the possibilities of working around the world!

What particularly appeals to me is working in multicultural teams, and not necessarily abroad. I find that environments with many nationalities are very rich. Everyone brings their own experiences, ideas, and ways of working, and generally speaking, I find the professional relationships very respectful and mature.

What advice would you give to someone looking for an international career?

Go for it! It doesn’t matter if you don’t speak English or Spanish, you will catch up. What matters is your enthusiasm and motivation, even if it’s a bit scary. Studies at ISAE-SUPAERO offer the possibility of doing it as a gap year or for the end-of-studies internship. Apply now!