Postdoc of High resolution biomass mapping using PlanetScope

Recent advances in satellite sensors enable the mapping of vegetation properties at both high spatial and temporal resolution. In particular the PlanetScope constellation can been utilized to map tree canopy cover, tree height, and tree biomass at large scale.

The postdoc’s duties will be to produce annual biomass maps from PlanetScope for Europe for 2018-2023. Furthermore, the candidate will produce a biomass map for Siberia for a single year. The candidate will also conduct a test study how PlanetScope based biomass estimates can be used to track biomass losses via wildfires. The work will be part of the ESA projects RECCAP2 and Fire CCI. Beyond this, the candidate will work on a global tree canopy height and biomass map based on PlanetScope data.

Formal requirements

Applicants should hold a PhD degree in Geography, Geoinformatics, Environmental Sciences, or related. We are seeking a highly motivated and ambitious individual with good interpersonal and communication skills. Fluency in spoken and written English is a requirement. As criteria for the assessment, emphasis will also be laid on previous publications, relevant experience in remote sensing and forest monitoring, as well as on programming skills (e.g. r, python). Proven experience with high-resolution imagery and machine/deep learning techniques are expected as well as proven experiences with handling and processing large image datasets.

Work environment

Your work place will be the Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management (IGN), which conducts research and education on the past, present and future physical, chemical and biological environments of the Earth and their interactions with societal and human systems to provide graduates and research in support of sustainable future solutions for society. The department has strong experience in interdisciplinary collaboration within and beyond the department.

Further information on the Department is linked at http://www.science.ku.dk/english/about-the-faculty/organisation/. Inquiries about the position can be made to Vivian Kvist Johansen.

The position is open from April 16 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter and will be available for 3 years.

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

Terms of employment

The position is covered by the Memorandum on Job Structure for Academic Staff.

Terms of appointment and payment accord to the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and The Danish Confederation of Professional Associations on Academics in the State.

Negotiation for salary supplement is possible.

The application, in English, must be submitted electronically by clicking APPLY NOW below.

Please include

• Curriculum vitae
• Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent)
• Research plan – description of current and future research plans
• Complete publication list
• Separate reprints of 3 particularly relevant papers

The deadline for applications is 15th January 2025, 23:59 GMT +1.                                     

After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the Interview Committee.

You can read about the recruitment process at http://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process/.