Careers, scholarships and awards
New Zealand’s space sector is growing fast—and so are the opportunities to be part of it. Whether you're a student exploring STEM, a researcher pushing the boundaries of science, or an entrepreneur building the next generation of aerospace technology, there’s a place for you in our space ecosystem.
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We’re committed to nurturing local talent, supporting diverse career pathways, and connecting people with the skills, training, and networks they need to thrive in this dynamic industry. Discover how you can launch your journey in space from right here in New Zealand.
Start your journey: Pathways for students and graduates
We support initiatives that connect young New Zealanders with real-world opportunities in the space sector. The New Zealand Space Scholarship enables university students to intern at NASA’s Ames Research Center and Jet Propulsion Laboratory, gaining hands-on experience on cutting-edge missions and technologies. The scholarship covers travel, accommodation, and living expenses, and includes outreach obligations to give back to the sector.
The Prime Minister’s Space Prizes celebrate excellence and innovation in space and advanced aviation. The Professional Excellence Prize recognises outstanding contributions to the sector, while the Student Endeavour Prize supports high school students undertaking space-related research, with winners receiving funding to advance their education and projects. These awards aim to inspire the next generation of space professionals and innovators.
Careers in Space – Aotearoa New Zealand
Scholarships
The New Zealand Space Scholarship supports postgraduate students pursuing space-related studies and international placements. It’s designed to help emerging talent gain experience with leading space organisations and contribute to the growth of New Zealand’s space capabilities. The scholarship reflects our commitment to building a skilled and future-ready workforce.
Find out how to apply:
The Prime Minister’s Space Prizes
The Prime Minister’s Space Prize Space Prize celebrates outstanding contributions to space science, technology, and innovation. Open to students and professionals, the prize offers recognition, mentorship, and opportunities to connect with industry leaders. It’s a chance to showcase your work and be part of shaping New Zealand’s space future.
Find out more:
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Careers in Space – Aotearoa New Zealand
New Zealand is no longer just watching the stars; we’re helping shape the future of space. Whether you're into rockets, robotics, climate science, or law, there's a place for you in our fast-growing space sector.
Prime Minister’s Space Prize
The Government has established 2 new awards to recognise the talented people working in New Zealand's space and advanced aviation sectors and inspire young people.
New Zealand Space Scholarship
The New Zealand Space Scholarship allows successful recipients a unique opportunity to research world-leading space missions and science, during a 3-month internship at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), Southern California.
Previous scholarship recipients’ experiences
The New Zealand Space Agency sponsors the New Zealand Space Scholarship for post-graduate students who have compatible research interests to participate in internship programmes at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) and at NASA’s Ames Research Center.