BiMo is a collaborative, multi-institutional program aimed at developing rapid, scalable, and technologically advanced biodiversity monitoring systems across Swiss terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, integrating remote sensing, environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding, and AI-driven data fusion.

Research Scope & Responsibilities

The selected postdoc will lead the remote sensing project within the BiMo initiative, evaluating and adapting sensor technologies to detect, map, and monitor biodiversity. Key tasks include:

• Processing and analyzing large-scale 2D and 3D remote sensing data from ground-based, aerial, and satellite platforms.
• Developing ecological and spatial indicators that combine remote sensing with biological field data (e.g., eDNA).
• Assessing environmental observation gaps and establishing standardized monitoring protocols.
• Contributing to a major external research proposal to secure future funding.
• Collaborating closely with interdisciplinary teams at both WSL and Eawag.
• Presenting findings at international conferences and publishing in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

Position Details

• Job Title: Postdoctoral Researcher (Remote Sensing for Biodiversity)
• Host Institution: WSL (with close Eawag collaboration)
• Duration: 2 Years
• Application Deadline: November 30, 2025
• Location: Birmensdorf, Switzerland (WSL Headquarters)

Required Qualifications & Skills

Applicants must hold a PhD in Remote Sensing, Environmental Science, Geo-information Science (GIS), Computer Vision, or a related quantitative discipline. Strong candidates should demonstrate:

• Extensive experience in remote sensing data processing and spatial analysis.
• Advanced programming skills in R, Python, or similar data science languages.
• A solid understanding of ecological concepts and biodiversity metrics.
• Experience integrating multi-sensor and multi-platform datasets.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English, with working knowledge of German being a strong asset.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online through the official WSL recruitment portal before November 30, 2025. Submissions via email or post will not be accepted.

To apply online, visit: WSL Job Application Portal.

For scientific questions regarding the role or project, contact Christian Ginzler at christian.ginzler@wsl.ch or Dr. Lars Waser at lars.waser@wsl.ch.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is this a fully funded postdoctoral position?

Yes, the position is fully funded for two years with a competitive Swiss salary and full social benefits under the ETH Domain framework.

2. Where will I be based?

The employment contract and primary workspace are at WSL in Birmensdorf, near Zurich, with collaborative visits and tasks scheduled at Eawag in Dübendorf.

About the Postdoctoral Role

Location: Finland
Duration: 2 Years (Full-Time)
Institution: Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke)
Position ID: 12786
Salary: Starting €3,512.13/month + up to 50% bonus
Application Deadline: [Check the official listing for updates]

This exciting postdoctoral research position focuses on developing and applying advanced geospatial tools to monitor carbon flux, biodiversity, and land use at a national scale. Your work will support Finland’s Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Inventory and inform policy through innovative Earth observation technologies.

Research Focus & Responsibilities

The position is jointly hosted by two of Luke’s leading research teams:

1. Ecosystem and Modeling Group (ESMA)

• Specializes in environmental modeling and satellite data analytics.

2. Carbon Cycle Management Group (HIHA)

• Focuses on national GHG inventories, land-use accounting, and carbon cycle science.

Key Tasks Include:

• Designing remote sensing tools for carbon and biodiversity monitoring
• Integrating satellite, LiDAR, UAV (drone), and field data into national inventories
• Conducting fieldwork and drone operations
• Developing automation workflows for environmental monitoring
• Writing project reports, research papers, and funding proposals

Tasks can be customized based on your expertise in GIS, remote sensing, machine learning, or environmental science.

Research Themes

• Mapping of forests, peatlands, and urban environments
• GHG estimation using Earth Observation (EO) tools
• Biodiversity tracking through geospatial indicators
• Data fusion from multiple remote sensing sources
• Spatial modeling and ecosystem classification

Candidate Profile – Are You the Right Fit?

Essential Qualifications:

• PhD (within the last 5 years) in forestry, environmental science, geography, geoinformatics, statistics, or machine learning
• Hands-on experience with large spatial datasets
• Proficient in remote sensing, GIS, satellite/UAV imagery analysis
• Strong skills in R, Python, QGIS, or ArcGIS
• Fluent in Finnish (mandatory for GHG reporting) and proficient in English
• Able to work both independently and as part of a team

Preferred/Bonus Skills:

• UAV/drone piloting certification or flight experience
• Fieldwork or ecological survey background
• Experience with Horizon Europe or EU-funded environmental projects

What Luke Offers You

• Competitive monthly salary starting at €3,512.13
• Performance-based bonus up to 50% (typically 15–20% for new hires)
• Remote and mobile working options across Finland
• Flexible working hours + generous paid leave
• Subsidized meals + wellness, commuting, and culture benefits
• International and interdisciplinary work environment
• Position subject to Finnish security clearance

How to Apply

Required Documents:

• Cover Letter
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• 2-page Research Plan with references
• Full List of Publications

Submission Options:

Apply online via the official Finnish government portal: Valtiolle.fi
Or post your application to:
Registry, Natural Resources Institute Finland
Latokartanonkaari 9, 00790 Helsinki, Finland

Contact for More Information

• Dr. Parvez Rana – Senior Scientist
  parvez.rana@luke.fi | +358 50 325 4773
• Heli Miettinen – Group Manager
  heli.miettinen@luke.fi | +358 46 920 6170

About the Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke)

Luke is Finland’s premier research organization dedicated to the sustainable use of renewable natural resources. The institute conducts cutting-edge interdisciplinary research that informs policy and promotes innovation across environmental sectors. Luke is internationally respected for its work in climate science, biodiversity monitoring, agroecology, and sustainable forestry.

Core Values:

• Sustainability & climate responsibility
• Scientific excellence
• Diversity & inclusion
• Societal innovation & impact