Technical Specialist for Data Acquisition and Evaluation in Crop Phenotyping

Technical Specialist for Data Acquisition and Evaluation in Crop Phenotyping

The Crop Science Group of the Institute of Agricultural Sciences at ETH Zürich invites applications for a technical / IT-support position (permanent). Our research focuses on high-throughput crop phenotyping in the field. Our goal is to develop approaches for image-based solutions to the grand challenges of today’s crop production.

Drones and autonomous field robots are increasingly used to acquire images and other sensor data in agricultural science. Methods of machine learning and other tools help capitalizing on this data in the interest of more sustainable crop production: Detection of weeds, pests and diseases; quantification of fertilization status and of developmental stages of crops can be achieved from images and other sensor data today.

The data specialist will be responsible for the operation and maintenance of drones and other phenotyping devices of our group. He or she will preprocess, evaluate and archive the data, develop hardware solutions and will contribute to publications, teaching and outreach of the group. Most projects will take part on our field site in Eschikon (20 km away from Zürich), some on field sites of partners, some at the core location of the group in Zurich. Interactions will take place with a wide range of other scientific groups – from robotics to social sciences.

You should, by the time of appointment, have completed an MSc in Computer Vision, Robotics, Electrical Engineering or a similar study program. Moreover, you have:

• Programming experience (Python, R)
• Microcontroller experience (Arduino, Rasperry Pi, etc.)
• Mechanical engineering experience
• Sound knowledge of English is obligatory; German is highly recommended
• Good communication and time management skills as well as willingness to participate in a collaborative and multifaceted research environment

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.

We look forward to receiving your online application with the following documents:

• Motivational letter
• CV
• Copies of study certificates
• Two reference letters (or at least contact details of two persons of reference)

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered. The position will remain open at least until November 30, 2021 and first interviews with candidates will be conducted in December. 

Further information about the group of Crop Science can be found on our website . Questions regarding the position should be directed to Prof. Achim Walter ([email protected] ; no applications).

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.