Doctoral Researcher, 3D Forest Modelling and Remote Sensing

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We invite applications for a doctoral researcher position within the VODBIO project, Vegetation Optical Depth as Biophysical Proxy: Retrieval, Validation, and Applications. The project develops a physically based framework for interpreting satellite microwave vegetation optical depth (VOD) as an indicator of vegetation water content, biomass, and forest structure. In this position, the doctoral researcher will generate realistic three-dimensional representations of trees and forest stands that support microwave electromagnetic modelling and physically based VOD interpretation.

The doctoral researcher will work at the interface of terrestrial laser scanning, quantitative structure modelling, forest ecology, and Earth observation. The position is particularly suited to a candidate interested in using advanced 3D remote sensing methods to link tree and forest structure with vegetation water and biomass signals observed by satellites.

The starting date is negotiable but preferably no later than November 1, 2026. The position is fully funded for three years (36 months).

Main responsibilities

The doctoral researcher will develop and apply workflows for converting terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) point clouds into quantitative structure models (QSMs) of individual trees and forest stands. These models will describe tree architecture, biomass distribution, woody and foliage components, and water-content-related properties needed for microwave VOD modelling. The work will include processing existing TLS datasets and collecting new field data from contrasting ecosystems, including tropical dryland vegetation in Kenya and moist tropical forest in the Amazon region.

• process 3D laser scanning data from forests;
• create realistic digital models of trees and forest stands;
• describe tree structure, foliage, biomass, and water content in the models;
• combine field measurements, laser scanning data, and satellite information;
• take part in fieldwork, data analysis, scientific writing, and project meetings;
• work together with project partners in Finland and internationally.

The doctoral researcher is expected to prepare a PhD thesis consisting of three peer-reviewed scientific articles. The thesis will focus on generating 3D tree and forest representations for microwave remote sensing, including QSM development, synthetic forest modelling, foliage and water content representation, and the use of these products for physically based VOD interpretation.

Research environment and supervision

The position will be based at the Department of Geosciences and Geography at University of Helsinki and supervised by University Researcher Janne Heiskanen and Professor Eduardo Maeda. The doctoral researcher will be part of an interdisciplinary consortium involving the Finnish Meteorological Institute, Aalto University, and international collaborators with expertise in microwave remote sensing, electromagnetic modelling, terrestrial laser scanning, forest ecology, and ecosystem modelling. The researcher will work closely with project partners responsible for 3D electromagnetic simulations, VOD retrieval algorithms, and ecological interpretation of vegetation water and biomass dynamics, with opportunities for fieldwork, research visits, conference participation, and co-authored publications.

Candidate profile

We are looking for a motivated candidate with a strong interest in remote sensing, forest structure, ecological modelling, or geospatial data science. Suitable backgrounds include geography, forest sciences, ecology, environmental sciences, geoinformatics, physics, computer science, or a related field. Strong programming skills, for example in Python or R, are required. Experience with point cloud processing, terrestrial or airborne laser scanning, quantitative structure models, GIS, or forest inventory is considered an advantage. The candidate should have good analytical skills, capacity for independent scientific work, and willingness to collaborate across disciplinary boundaries.

The position provides an excellent opportunity to develop expertise in 3D vegetation modelling, field-based remote sensing, and physically based interpretation of satellite observations. The doctoral researcher will contribute to methods that improve our ability to monitor vegetation water status, biomass, and ecosystem responses to drought and climate change.

The employment contract will include a probationary period of six months. The appointee should either already have the right to pursue a doctoral degree at the University of Helsinki by the start of the appointment or apply for the right and obtain it within the probationary period. If the candidate does not already have the right to pursue a doctoral degree at the University of Helsinki, it must be applied for separately. The requirements for pursuing a doctoral degree at the University of Helsinki can be found here.

What we offer

• A world class academic community that promotes diversity, international engagement and equality. We encourage all qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply for our positions
• A starting salary of approximately 2700-2900 euros/month
• Occupational health care and other social benefits
• Support for internationally recruited employees with their transition to work and live in Finland
• A chance to live in Helsinki and Finland renowned for their high quality of life, services, and work-life balance.

Application instructions

Applications are submitted through the University of Helsinki recruitment system. Applications should include (1) a freeform CV highlighting earlier relevant experience, and (2) a motivation letter (max. 2 pages) explaining why the candidate wants to pursue doctoral studies.

The deadline for submitting the application is August 31, 2026 at 23:59 EEST (UTC + 3).

Additional information

For more information on the position and research group, please contact University Researcher Janne Heiskanen (janne.heiskanen@helsinki.fi) and Professor Eduardo Maeda (eduardo.maeda@helsinki.fi).

With technical questions related to the recruitment system, please contact recruitment@helsinki.fi.

A diverse and equitable study and work culture is important to us. That is why we do our best to promote an inclusive university community. We encourage all qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply for our positions. Click this link to read about accessibility and inclusivity at our University. JOIN US TO BUILD A BETTER WORLD – TOGETHER!#HelsinkiUniCareers

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Open position

(23.59 Europe/Helsinki time)

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