Postdoc In Machine Learning For Large-scale Tree Ecosystem Monitoring

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Postdoc in Machine Learning for Large-scale Tree Ecosystem Monitoring

The Machine Learning Section at the Department of Computer Science (DIKU) invites applications for a two-year postdoctoral position in Machine Learning for Large-scale Tree Ecosystem Monitoring within TreeSense: Center for Remote sensing and Deep Learning of Global Tree Resources. The TreeSense center is funded by the Danish National Research Foundation and focuses on the critical role of trees in terrestrial ecosystems, such as climate regulation, biodiversity support, and local livelihoods.

The postdoc’s duties will include research within machine learning applied to remote sensing data. The postdoc is expected to work together with researchers at DIKU and IGN, the Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management at the University of Copenhagen.

The start date is 1 June 2026.

The postdoc will investigate machine learning (ML) methods for analyzing Earth observation data. This can include the development of novel algorithms and learning paradigms. Initially, there will be an emphasis on studying vertical vegetation structure.

Candidates applying for this position must have a strong background in ML, as for example demonstrated by a PhD in Computer Science in the field of ML, with a drive towards advancing the UN sustainable development goals. They must have demonstrated the ability to tailor modern ML frameworks to solve computer vision and ML tasks. Experience in handling Earth observation data is a must. Knowledge in handling LiDAR data, combining multi-modal data, and working with sparsely labelled data are desirable skills. Familiarity with high performance computing systems is a plus.

Principal supervisor is ELLIS fellow Prof. Christian Igel, igel@di.ku.dk, DIKU. Co-supervisors are Assistant Prof. Ankit Kariryaa, ak@di.ku.dk, and Assistant Prof. Nico Lang, nila@di.ku.dk, from DIKU along with Associate Prof. Martin Brandt, mabr@ign.ku.dk, and Professor, Rasmus Fensholt, rf@ign.ku.dk, from IGN.

The TreeSense project

The research center aims to revolutionize global tree monitoring using advanced satellite technology and next-generation deep learning (DL) methods within AI. This approach will enable detailed assessment of global tree dynamics, including key functional and structural properties such as important species, the use of trees, tree horizontal and vertical structure, carbon stocks and carbon sequestration rates.

This research paves the road towards addressing science questions on major unknowns within global change research. Here the center will break new ground on how global warming and increased climatic extreme events affect tree physiology and growth patterns at species level and we will quantify the extent and dynamics of anthropogenic forest disturbance and degradation.

Ultimately, this research will enable us to uncover the potentials for various forest and tree-related production systems and human livelihoods as means of climate mitigation actions while improving our understanding of the importance of woody resources for sustainable food systems.

Our group and research – what do we offer?

The Machine Learning Section is a part of the Department of Computer Science, Faculty of SCIENCE, University of Copenhagen, and the ELLIS Unit Copenhagen (https://ellis.eu/). The University of Copenhagen was founded in 1479 and is the oldest and largest university in Denmark. It is ranked as the best university in Scandinavia and as one of the top institutions in Europe. The university is hosting the Pioneer Center for Artificial Intelligence.

The Department of Computer Science (DIKU) offers a friendly and thriving international research and working environment with opportunities to build up internationally competitive research groups. Copenhagen is one of the 10 most livable cities in the world with a rich culture within music, theater and associations. Life for families is made easy by a publicly supported daycare and health care system, dual career opportunities, maternity/parental leave and six weeks of paid annual vacation. International candidates may find information on living and working in Denmark here. Useful information is also available at The International Staff Mobility office (ISM) at the University of Copenhagen (link). ISM offers a variety of services to international researchers coming to and working at the University of Copenhagen.

Further information on the department is linked at www.di.ku.dk. Inquiries about the position can be made to Christian Igel (igel@di.ku.dk).

The two-year position is open from 1 June 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

Terms of employment

The position is covered by the Memorandum on Job Structure for Academic Staff.

Salary, pension and other conditions of employment are set in accordance with the Agreement between the Ministry of Taxation and AC (Danish Confederation of Professional Associations) or other relevant organisation. Currently, the monthly salary starts at 39,200 DKK/approx. 5,200 EUR (November 2025 level). Depending on qualifications, a supplement may be negotiated. The employer will pay an additional 18,07 % to your pension fund.

Foreign and Danish applicants may be eligible for tax reductions, if they hold a PhD degree and have not lived in Denmark the last 10 years.

The application, in English, must be submitted electronically by clicking APPLY NOW below.

Please include

• Curriculum vitae
• Diplomas (Master and PhD degree or equivalent)
• Research plan – description of current and future research plans
• Complete publication list
• Separate reprints of 3 particularly relevant papers
  
  

The deadline for applications is 1 March 2026, 23:59 CET

After the expiry of the deadline for applications, the authorized recruitment manager selects applicants for assessment on the advice of the Interview Committee.

You can read about the recruitment process at https://employment.ku.dk/faculty/recruitment-process/.

Interviews will be held on April 15, 2026.

APPLY NOW

Part of the International Alliance of Research Universities (IARU), and among Europe’s top-ranking universities, the University of Copenhagen promotes research and teaching of the highest international standard. Rich in tradition and modern in outlook, the University gives students and staff the opportunity to cultivate their talent in an ambitious and informal environment. An effective organisation – with good working conditions and a collaborative work culture – creates the ideal framework for a successful academic career.

Contact

Christian Igel

E-mail: qzr211@ku.dk

Info

Application deadline: 01-03-2026

Employment start: 01-06-2026

Working hours: Full time

Department/Location: Department of Computer Science

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