Temporary contract | 24 months | Belvaux

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

The Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST) is a Research and Technology Organization (RTO) active in the fields of materials, environment and IT. By transforming scientific knowledge into technologies, smart data and tools, LIST empowers citizens in their choices, public authorities in their decisions and businesses in their strategies.

Do you want to know more about LIST? Check our website: https://www.list.lu/

How will you contribute?

To strengthen its activities in crop stress monitoring and ecosystem process modelling using advanced satellite observation capabilities aimed at preparing for the future ESA hyperspectral VNIR and high spatiotemporal resolution thermal missions, LIST is offering a 2-year fixed-term position for a researcher in remote sensing of agriculture and terrestrial ecosystem functioning. You will work within a collaborative group of scientists from the REMOTE group at LIST in Luxembourg. You will work closely with remote sensing experts and ecosystem functioning modelers on (a) Developing crop stress indicators for monitoring crop water and photosynthetic deficits accurately and timely for the selected European agricultural ecosystems using the synthetical ESA CHIME and LSTM data, and (b) Developing physically based models to link the plant transpiration and photosynthesis processes.

You will mainly work on two projects, (a) the ESA funded project AgriCEM that aims at generating biophysical and biogeochemical parameters for the upcoming Copernicus Expansion missions and taking full advantage of these products for developing crop water and photosynthetic stress indices to improve the agricultural sustainability over Europe and beyond, and (b) the FNR funded project ENCORE that aims at advancing the terrestrial ecosystem function modelling driven by high spatiotemporal satellite observations.

You will contribute to these two RDI projects by:

·       Developing crop water stress and photosynthetic stress indicators based on the hyperspectral VNIR and high-resolution thermal data.

·       Validating the developed stress indices over the selected agricultural ecosystems in Europe based on ground measurements.

·       Coupling plant transpiration and photosynthesis under a unified framework through the link of stomatal conductance.

·       Evaluating the developed framework across a gradient of aridity and climates.

·       Contributing to the scientific and technical content of project reports.

·       Disseminating and publishing research findings in top-ranked scientific journals and at international conferences.

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

You hold a Ph.D. in Remote Sensing, Geography, Earth Science, Agriculture, Ecohydrology, Biometeorology, Hydrology, or a closely related field. Your PhD has to be completed before the start date at LIST.

You gained:

·       Experience and knowledge in VNIR and shortwave infrared remote sensing and vegetation index. Notions about thermal infrared remote sensing and deep learning will be an asset.

·       Experience and knowledge in plant photosynthesis and transpiration, specialized knowledge of stomatal conductance, and surface energy balance.

·       Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively with researchers and students from different scientific backgrounds.

·       Strong statistical and computer skills including demonstrated proficiency with computer coding, such as MATLAB, R, python, and expertise in statistical modelling.

·       Experience in designing, planning, and conducting experimental procedures, including the ability to meet project goals in a timely manner, and follow through on project deliverables.

·       The ability to communicate research findings both at professional meetings and in high quality peer-reviewed journals.

·       Excellent technical, analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills. Strong attention to detail, and meticulous work style, as evidenced by previous research.

You have a good level both written and spoken English.

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 50 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 and access to 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, colour, 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.