Postdoctoral Researcher/Senior Scientist in Hyperspectral Remote Sensing for Forest Management 100%, Zurich, fixed-term
ETH Zürich
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Postdoctoral Researcher/Senior Scientist in Hyperspectral Remote Sensing for Forest Management
100%, Zurich, fixed-term
print Drucken
Are you an ambitious postdoctoral scientist with strong analytical and numerical skills, and expertise in geomatics,
remote sensing, and data processing? We invite you to join our team and help shape the future of Earth observation in
forest management.
You will join FORM (the Professorship of Forest Resources Management) and the team that focuses on (1) the
acquisition, processing, and interpretation of satellite and drone data, as well as (2) the development of operational
applications for emerging intelligent earth observation technologies.
Our team develops cutting-edge algorithms and AI-based solutions for data processing and validation, and provides
scientific expertise for the implementation of future remote sensing missions. The team’s work bridges earth
observation with applied forest monitoring, including tree species identification, forest structural changes, and
forest resilience assessments, with a growing focus on spectral and functional trait analysis to support biodiversity
and genetic monitoring in forestry.
Job description
Your Project:
You will lead a new line of inquiry within FORM: the use of hyperspectral data to advance terrestrial - particularly
forest - resources management. Your pioneering work will blend innovative research with practical applications. You
will have the opportunity to develop new methodologies while building your own scientific profile.
Potential research topics include:
- Use of hyperspectral reflectance for evaluating leaf functional traits.
- Integration of hyperspectral imaging with genome-wide association studies (GWAS).
- Detection of genetic variation among tree populations via hyperspectral data.
- Forest species mapping and biodiversity assessment.
- Data fusion approaches combining SAR data (e.g., from ESA's BIOMASS mission) with hyperspectral imagery.
Your work will be conducted in close collaboration with project partners across the ETH Domain (including ETH Space,
WSL (Swiss Federal Research Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research) and others), the University of Zurich
(EcoVision Lab), and others.
Key Responsibilities:
- Identify and lead research projects in the described domain, including proposal development, partner coordination,
and budget oversight.
- Design and implement field campaigns and conduct data collection and analysis.
- Publish findings in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals.
- Supervise and mentor junior researchers (PhD, MSc, BSc) and oversee student theses.
- Develop operational data processing workflows for hyperspectral data and contribute to the design of a software
framework for processing multispectral and hyperspectral data.
- Present research results to academic audiences, collaborators, and stakeholders.
Profile
- PhD in Geomatics or a related field (e.g., Environmental Sciences, Civil Engineering), with demonstrable expertise
in remote sensing and geospatial analysis.
- Prior postdoctoral experience in a thematically related area is a strong advantage.
- Experience supervising student research projects or theses.
- Solid track record in Earth observation data processing and analysis, supported by scientific publications and/or
completed projects.
Technical Expertise:
- Proficiency in acquiring and processing Earth observation data, including drone-based data (RGB, LiDAR,
hyperspectral).
- Strong skills in geospatial and statistical analysis (e.g., GIS, remote sensing software, R/Python).
- Experience in data preprocessing, modeling, and visualization.
- Strong publication record in relevant scientific journals.
Language Requirements:
- Proficiency in English (spoken and written).
- Knowledge of a Swiss national language is an asset.
Desirable Skills and Attributes
- Ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary and collaborative research teams.
- Experience in project management, including funding acquisition and stakeholder coordination.
- Flexibility and adaptability to evolving research challenges and technological developments.
- Creative, solution-oriented mindset with a commitment to sustainability and environmental impact.
Workplace
Workplace
We offer
- An inspiring, international, and interdisciplinary work environment in a world-leading research institute.
- An opportunity to be part of developing a new area of research within FORM.
- Opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research with the potential for high impact in multiple fields and a chance
to contribute meaningfully to an ambitious research agenda focused on creating positive impacts for global society and
future generations.
- A tailor-made program for your professional development.
- Participation in and shaping a dynamic research team with supportive colleagues, fostering collaboration and mutual
learning.
- Access to high-performance computing.
Terms of employment:
The desired starting date is September 1st, 2025. We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher/senior scientist for an
initial period of 3 years, with annual contracts. The position may be extended up to 6 years, based on performance and
funding availability.
The place of work is Zurich, Switzerland
All applications received by June 20th, 2025 will receive full consideration. The position will remain open until it
is filled.
Visit the ETH website for more information on salary, benefits and career support to postdocs.
chevron_right Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich
We value diversity
In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value
diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students
are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open
environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.
Curious? So are we.
We look forward to receiving your online application including:
- A one-page letter of interest that includes: (1) your motivation for this work, (2) how your background has prepared
you for it, (3) information on the potential research topic(s) listed above that best align with your interests, and
(4) how this position will help you achieve your career goals.
- Detailed CV (max. 3 pages).
- Publication list.
- Copy of PhD diploma.
- Contact details of 2-3 references.
Note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal.
All applications received by June 20th, 2025 will receive full consideration. The position will remain open until it
is filled.
For further information please contact Ariane Hangartner ariane.hangartner(at)usys.ethz.ch (no applications) or visit
our website.
About ETH Zürich
ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our
excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000
people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an
environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we
work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.
About ETH Zürich
ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our
excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000
people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an
environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we
work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.
100%, Zurich, fixed-term
print Drucken
Are you an ambitious postdoctoral scientist with strong analytical and numerical skills, and expertise in geomatics,
remote sensing, and data processing? We invite you to join our team and help shape the future of Earth observation in
forest management.
You will join FORM (the Professorship of Forest Resources Management) and the team that focuses on (1) the
acquisition, processing, and interpretation of satellite and drone data, as well as (2) the development of operational
applications for emerging intelligent earth observation technologies.
Our team develops cutting-edge algorithms and AI-based solutions for data processing and validation, and provides
scientific expertise for the implementation of future remote sensing missions. The team’s work bridges earth
observation with applied forest monitoring, including tree species identification, forest structural changes, and
forest resilience assessments, with a growing focus on spectral and functional trait analysis to support biodiversity
and genetic monitoring in forestry.
Job description
Your Project:
You will lead a new line of inquiry within FORM: the use of hyperspectral data to advance terrestrial - particularly
forest - resources management. Your pioneering work will blend innovative research with practical applications. You
will have the opportunity to develop new methodologies while building your own scientific profile.
Potential research topics include:
- Use of hyperspectral reflectance for evaluating leaf functional traits.
- Integration of hyperspectral imaging with genome-wide association studies (GWAS).
- Detection of genetic variation among tree populations via hyperspectral data.
- Forest species mapping and biodiversity assessment.
- Data fusion approaches combining SAR data (e.g., from ESA's BIOMASS mission) with hyperspectral imagery.
Your work will be conducted in close collaboration with project partners across the ETH Domain (including ETH Space,
WSL (Swiss Federal Research Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research) and others), the University of Zurich
(EcoVision Lab), and others.
Key Responsibilities:
- Identify and lead research projects in the described domain, including proposal development, partner coordination,
and budget oversight.
- Design and implement field campaigns and conduct data collection and analysis.
- Publish findings in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals.
- Supervise and mentor junior researchers (PhD, MSc, BSc) and oversee student theses.
- Develop operational data processing workflows for hyperspectral data and contribute to the design of a software
framework for processing multispectral and hyperspectral data.
- Present research results to academic audiences, collaborators, and stakeholders.
Profile
- PhD in Geomatics or a related field (e.g., Environmental Sciences, Civil Engineering), with demonstrable expertise
in remote sensing and geospatial analysis.
- Prior postdoctoral experience in a thematically related area is a strong advantage.
- Experience supervising student research projects or theses.
- Solid track record in Earth observation data processing and analysis, supported by scientific publications and/or
completed projects.
Technical Expertise:
- Proficiency in acquiring and processing Earth observation data, including drone-based data (RGB, LiDAR,
hyperspectral).
- Strong skills in geospatial and statistical analysis (e.g., GIS, remote sensing software, R/Python).
- Experience in data preprocessing, modeling, and visualization.
- Strong publication record in relevant scientific journals.
Language Requirements:
- Proficiency in English (spoken and written).
- Knowledge of a Swiss national language is an asset.
Desirable Skills and Attributes
- Ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary and collaborative research teams.
- Experience in project management, including funding acquisition and stakeholder coordination.
- Flexibility and adaptability to evolving research challenges and technological developments.
- Creative, solution-oriented mindset with a commitment to sustainability and environmental impact.
Workplace
Workplace
We offer
- An inspiring, international, and interdisciplinary work environment in a world-leading research institute.
- An opportunity to be part of developing a new area of research within FORM.
- Opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research with the potential for high impact in multiple fields and a chance
to contribute meaningfully to an ambitious research agenda focused on creating positive impacts for global society and
future generations.
- A tailor-made program for your professional development.
- Participation in and shaping a dynamic research team with supportive colleagues, fostering collaboration and mutual
learning.
- Access to high-performance computing.
Terms of employment:
The desired starting date is September 1st, 2025. We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher/senior scientist for an
initial period of 3 years, with annual contracts. The position may be extended up to 6 years, based on performance and
funding availability.
The place of work is Zurich, Switzerland
All applications received by June 20th, 2025 will receive full consideration. The position will remain open until it
is filled.
Visit the ETH website for more information on salary, benefits and career support to postdocs.
chevron_right Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich
We value diversity
In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value
diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students
are respected. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to find out how we ensure a fair and open
environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.
Curious? So are we.
We look forward to receiving your online application including:
- A one-page letter of interest that includes: (1) your motivation for this work, (2) how your background has prepared
you for it, (3) information on the potential research topic(s) listed above that best align with your interests, and
(4) how this position will help you achieve your career goals.
- Detailed CV (max. 3 pages).
- Publication list.
- Copy of PhD diploma.
- Contact details of 2-3 references.
Note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal.
All applications received by June 20th, 2025 will receive full consideration. The position will remain open until it
is filled.
For further information please contact Ariane Hangartner ariane.hangartner(at)usys.ethz.ch (no applications) or visit
our website.
About ETH Zürich
ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our
excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000
people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an
environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we
work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.
About ETH Zürich
ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in science and technology. We are renowned for our
excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000
people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an
environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we
work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.