Research Assistant Remote Sensing and Machine Learning

We are looking for a Research Assistant to join our Visual Analysis and Perception research group. You will work on the research project“ReDoCO2 Reducing and Documenting CO2 emissions from Peatlands” which is an interdisciplinary project funded by Innovation Fund Denmark through their Grand Solutions program. You will work on machine learning and data processing for mapping soil organic carbon, peat thickness, and water table depth in a joint collaboration between the Department of Architecture, Design& Media Technology at Aalborg University and the Department of Agroecology(AGRO) at Aarhus University.

About the project:

Depending on their present condition, peatlands can store a huge amount of carbon or be a source of carbon dioxide(CO2), which is a crucial challenge globally. In Denmark, peatlands constitute a key target to achieve the national goal of reducing CO2 emissions with 70% by 2030. Thus, there is a great need to investigate the spatial variability of peat soil properties, in order to assess the total amount of carbon stored in these soils. Through the combination of state-of-the-art hardware, software, modeling techniques and IT technologies, the project will develop an overall methodology to map peatlands in detail and enable accurate estimates of CO2 emissions and potential carbon stocks. This methodology will provide decision-makers with detailed information and cost-effective tools to appropriately select which peatland areas to take out of agricultural production and restore. Notably, the combination of the drone-mounted cutting-edge geophysical sensors, advanced 2D modeling techniques and 3D software will be a game changer for peatland mapping both nationally and worldwide.  

The successful applicant has a relevant M.Sc. with some experience in machine learning. Moreover, the applicant should be fluent in English(both oral and written), have strong programming and math skills, and be familiar with R or python. Interest or even experience within remote sensing is an advantage, but is not required. 

The Visual Analysis and Perception Laboratory at Aalborg University has conducted research within computer vision and machine learning for more than 20 years. The lab contributes scientifically and practically to the project within all aspects related to data integration and machine learning. The lab expects to advance their general competences of applying data science in relation to soil science, and in particular applying deep learning algorithms to diverse data types.

You may read more about the department here:CREATE Department Brochure

You may obtain further information about the scientific aspects from Postdoc Mark Philip Philipsen, e-mail:[email protected]   phone:+45 9940 3609.

Qualification requirements:
The required level of qualifications is at master level. 

The application must contain the following: 

• Cover Letter(a motivated text wherein the reasons for applying, qualifications in relation to the position, and intentions and visions for the position are stated).
• Current CV(including personal data).
• Copy of relevant diplomas(Master of Science and, if any, PhD) On request you could be asked for an official English translation.
• Scientific qualifications. You may attach up to 5 publications(optional).
• Dissemination qualifications, including participation on committees or boards, participation in organisations and the like(optional).
• References/recommendations.

The applications are only to be submitted online by using the"Apply online" button below.

AAU wishes to reflect the diversity of society and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background or belief.

Shortlisting will be applied. This means that subsequent to the deadline for applications the head of department supported by the chair of the assessment committee will select candidates for assessment. All applicants will be informed whether they will be assessed or not.

For further information concerning the application procedure please contact Sanne Vestergaard Hejlesen by [email protected] or phone(+45) 99 40 39 72.

Appointment to Research Assistant may be for a period of up to three years. Reappointment may be made, but a Research Assistant can only be appointed to Research Assistant for a period of maximum three years. Further information regarding guidelines, ministerial circular in force and procedures can be seenhere  

Employment is in accordance with the Ministerial Order on the Appointment of Academic Staff at Universities(the Appointment Order) and the Ministry of Finance's current Job Structure for Academic Staff at Universities. Employment and salary are in accordance with the collective agreement for state-employed academics.