JUNIOR R&T ENGINEER IN REMOTE SENSING FOR DATA ASSIMILATION OF.... (m/f)

JUNIOR R&T ENGINEER IN REMOTE SENSING FOR DATA ASSIMILATION OF REFLECTANCE INTO A CROP GROWTH MODEL (m/f)

Fixed term contract | Belvaux | Until 31/03/2027 | 80% part-time

Are you passionate about research? So are we! Come and join us

The Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST) is a leading Research and Technology Organisation (RTO) that drives innovation for the economy and society in Luxembourg and beyond. With cutting-edge expertise in Natural, Built, Industrial environments, Space, AI, Security and defence technologies. LIST bridges scientific excellence and applied research to design solutions that address real-world challenges and create positive impact.

How will you contribute?

Your work environment

You will be part of LIST's Remote sensing and natural resources modelling group

Embedded in the Environmental Sensing and Modelling (ENVISION) unit, the Remote sensing and natural resources modelling group is carrying out impact-driven research, geared towards monitoring and predicting environmental systems in a changing world. Our research group capitalizes on a blend of remote sensing data obtained from space- and air-borne platforms, as well as in-situ data measured with Internet of Things (IoT) devices, for producing information on the status of natural resources. Our research and development activities focus on the synergistic use, processing, and interpretation of data from multiple complementary active and passive sensors installed on both space- and airborne platforms. We rely on competences in environmental sciences, such as hydrology and hydraulics, meteorology, plant physiology, and geography for monitoring variations in Earth's biotic and abiotic resources. We integrate remotely sensed information with in-situ data, process-based models, and leverage satellite communication, IoT and machine learning technologies in order to provide evidence-based decision support tools in near real time across a variety of thematic domains: disaster risk reduction, sustainable agri-food systems, terrestrial ecosystem resilience, civil security and defence.
To strengthen its activities in supporting analysis on drought impacts on food security in the context of the ESA-funded Teresa project, LIST is offering a 12-month fixed-term Msc remote sensing scientist position in data assimilation of Earth Observation data into crop growth models. Reflectance data is assimilated by using a radiative transfer model. The model results will be compared with other modelling schemes. The successful candidate will join a collaborative team of scientists within the Remote Sensing and Natural Resources Modeling (REMOTE) group at LIST in Luxembourg. The researcher will work closely with remote sensing experts, modellers and hydrologists on the information system on drought stress.

The successful applicant will contribute to the Teresa project by:

· Assimilating satellite data (Landsat and Sentinel-2) by using a radiative transfer model and soil moisture (measured and modelled) into a crop growth model;
· Extending the modelling scheme to larger areas;
· Integrating the output provided by project partners into the LIST modelling framework;
· Comparing the modelling scheme with other models
· Supporting the validation and improvement of evapotranspiration products.
· Supporting the reporting and data-upload to ESA.


Is Your profile described below? Are you our future colleague? Apply now!

Education

Msc degree in Remote sensing and geoscience, Environmental and climate sciences, Geomatic sciences, Earth science, or a closely related field

• Good knowledge of EO toolkits (e.g., GDAL, Xarray, SNAP, EnMAP box, etc.).
• Good knowledge on crop growth modelling and data assimilation.
• Hands-on experience with at least one of the following popular programming languages: R, Python, Matlab
• Knowledge of statistical methods to evaluate modelling results
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively with researchers, humanitarian workers, and other colleagues from different scientific backgrounds.
• good technical, analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Interest in scientific writing and the drafting of research articles

Language skills
• Good English (oral and written) is mandatory.

Your LIST benefits

· An organization with a passion for impact and strong RDI partnerships in Luxembourg and Europe that works on responsible and independent research projects
· Sustainable by design, empowering our belief that we play an essential role in paving the way to a green society
· Innovative infrastructures and exceptional labs occupying more than 5,000 square metres, including innovations in all that we do
· An environment encouraging curiosity, innovation and entrepreneurship in all areas
· Personalized learning programme to foster our staff's soft and technical skills
· Multicultural and international work environment with more than 60 nationalities represented in our workforce
· Diverse and inclusive work environment empowering our people to fulfil their personal and professional ambitions
· Gender-friendly environment with multiple actions to attract, develop and retain women in science
· 32 days' paid annual leave, 11 public holidays, 13-month salary, statutory health insurance
· Flexible working hours, home working policy (not remote) and access to Digital lunch vouchers

Apply online

Your application must include:
· A motivation letter oriented towards the position and detailing your experience
· A scientific CV with contact details
· List of publications (and patents, if applicable)
· Contact details of 2 references
Please apply ONLINE formally through the HR system. Applications by email will not be considered.

Application procedure and conditions
We kindly request applicants to provide their nationality for statistical purposes only, as part of our commitment to promoting diversity and ensuring equal opportunities in our workforce. This information will be kept confidential and will not be used for any discriminatory purposes. LIST is dedicated to maintaining an inclusive work environment and is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to attracting, hiring, and retaining a diverse workforce. All applicants will be considered for employment without discrimination based on national origin, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, religion, age, or disability.
Applications will be continuously reviewed until the position is filled. An assessment committee will thoroughly evaluate applications, adhering to guidelines designed to ensure equal opportunities. The primary criteria for selection will be the alignment of the applicant's existing skills and expertise with the requirements mentioned above.

As part of our recruitment process, the selected candidate might be subject to a background check in accordance with applicable laws and institutional policies.
For the purposes of the position and in accordance with applicable legislation, the successful candidate may be requested to provide a recent criminal record certificate.