Space Career Profile: Sophie Pireaux

Who are you and what exactly do you do?

My name is Sophie Pireaux, and I work at BELSPO. In my role, I am responsible for coordinating and representing Belgium’s participation within the scientific programme of the European Space Agency (ESA). I represent Belgium on ESA’s Science Programme Committee (SPC) and oversee the PRODEX programme, which supports the development, operation, and exploitation of scientific instruments and experiments. I also represent Belgium on the Council of the European Southern Observatory (ESO).

What does a typical day look like for you?

No two working days are the same. One day I may focus mainly on budgetary matters, while the next I may be dealing with scientific and strategic issues or representing Belgium at international meetings.
Examples of my responsibilities include:

• Reading, evaluating, and selecting research proposals submitted under the PRODEX programme.
• Participating in meetings, often at ESA headquarters in Paris or at ESTEC in Noordwijk (the Netherlands). I also attend ESO Council meetings three times a year, either at ESO headquarters in Garching (Germany) or in one of the member states.
• Visiting the ESO observatories in Chile every three years.
• Monitoring the budgets of ongoing projects as well as the overall PRODEX budget envelope.
• Visiting research teams from institutes and universities participating in the PRODEX programme.
• Supporting and advising Belgian companies on their involvement in and contribution to ESA scientific missions.
• Participating in workshops and programme-related meetings.
• Taking part in internal coordination meetings within BELSPO.
• Providing scientific expertise and policy input on space-related matters to support political decision-making.

What are the most rewarding things about your job?

What I particularly enjoy about this position is the combination of an international working environment, frequent interactions with leading experts, and close involvement in space activities and high-level scientific research.
I have the opportunity to support research and innovation, contribute to the public good, and work in an organization whose values align with my own. I also appreciate the possibilities for teleworking, training opportunities, and international travel. Above all, I value the chance to experience unique events from time to time, such as the launch of a space mission or visits to the ESO observatories in Chile.

And the most challenging?

Some aspects of the role are less appealing. Certain dossiers can be politically sensitive, which may slow down decision-making processes. Frequent international travel can also affect family organization and work-life balance.
At times, I miss having clearer career development opportunities. Finally, the administrative side of the job occupies a significant portion of working time.

How did you get there?

I hold a degree in Physical Sciences and a PhD in Theoretical and Mathematical Physics, specializing in theories of gravity and their experimental validation, including through space missions.
After six years of postdoctoral research, I was looking for greater stability in my career for family reasons. At the same time, I was strongly attracted by the opportunity to support research through a role combining policy, management, and strategic coordination.

What did you study?

In addition to the studies mentioned above, I have completed numerous training courses in a wide range of areas, including: Project and programme management, International organizations, The European Union, Communication, Satellite communications, Spacecraft and scientific space missions.
These courses have helped me develop the multidisciplinary expertise required for my current role.

What skills are needed for your job?

For my position, a strong command of Dutch, French, and English is essential, together with experience in project and programme management and a solid understanding of how international organizations operate.
It is also important to enjoy working in a multicultural environment and to have a solid scientific background in order to communicate effectively with researchers. Strong organizational skills, a proactive mindset, and a healthy dose of energy and enthusiasm are valuable assets.