Christopher Vasko

Optical and Quantum Innovation Engineer - ESA

Leidschendam, South Holland, Netherlands

About

My diverse background from working in startups, academia and administration allows me to be a very versatile generalist as well as informed specialist. I enjoy and thrive in dynamic, international environments and I am motivated by working for a common cause, a demanding and higher goal.

Experience

  • Optical and Quantum Innovation Engineer at European Space Agency - ESA
    Feb 2023 - Present · 3 yrs 6 mos

    In my role, I work in ESA's Connectivity and Secure Communications department on optical, quantum and computational topics relevant for the next generation of satcom systems. I am coordinating with internal and external stakeholders to examine the potential of new trends, to support policy building, and faciliate the creation of new ESA (co)funded activities to support European/Canadian space industry.

  • Telecommunications System Engineer at Aurora Technology BV
    Sep 2019 - Feb 2023 · 3 yrs 6 mos

    In my current role, I am supporting ESA's Telecommunication and Integrated Applications Department in Noordwijk in activities related to their Secure and Laser Communications Programme.

  • Postdoctoral Research Fellow at European Space Agency - ESA
    Apr 2016 - Sep 2019 · 3 yrs 6 mos

    ESA's Postdoctoral Research Fellowship programme (RFP) aims to offer young scientists and engineers the possibility for two years to carry out research in a variety of disciplines related to space science, space applications or space technology. Various tasks in Strategy Department of the European Space Agency. The department provides advice and support on political matters to the Director General of the Agency on a wide range of activities. These include, but are not limited to: policy development, ensuring the appropriate representation of the Director General and ESA in political affairs, and preparing policy and coordination of Agency relations with parliaments in Europe and abroad. Daily tasks - preparation of data and content for high level meetings; - ad-hoc technical and policy reports; - coordination administrative tasks; - research into entrepreneurship, innovation and in central and eastern European countries; - preparation and update of communication materials. Topics worked on: - Space Megatrends analysis - National Security and Innovation Strategies and their assessment - Relevant new space trends and their impact on space policy

  • Technical Support Engineer at BenQ Europe
    2015 - 2016 · 1 yr

    Member of field engineering team specialized in optical projection systems (projectors and high end displays) and power supplies. Daily tasks included maintaining product line database, developing and testing procedures for troubleshooting of optical projection systems. Acted as second line technical support on demand for German, Dutch, Spanish and English partners. Acted as Technical Expert on Optical Systems in supporting Innovation for future projector systems by analysing relevance of market and consumer trends.

  • Technical Consultant at SpaceTec Capital
    2011 - 2012 · 1 yr

    Main work focus on technical solutions for consultancy projects, ranging from data processing to database design. Assistance, preparation and documentation in public tender bids in the FP-7 funding framework with background research and space know-how. Employment over various periods linked to various projects in the space sector.