Location: National Observatory of Athens, Greece
Overview:
The Operational Unit BEYOND Center ( http://www.beyond-eocenter.eu/ ) for Earth Observation Research and Satellite Remote Sensing of the Institute of Astronomy and Astrophysics, Space Applications and Remote Sensing of the National Observatory of Athens, is seeking to hire a highly skilled and motivated Research Data Scientist to join our team and contribute to cutting-edge applied research at the intersection of Earth Observation data and Artificial Intelligence (AI) solutions. The selected candidate will play a crucial role in developing innovative approaches to address challenges related to sustainable agriculture, ecosystems, biodiversity, and climate change. The ideal candidate should have a strong background in data science, machine learning, statistics, and a keen interest in environmental research. Experience in causal inference and/or causal discovery is highly desired.
Responsibilities:
- Earth Observation Data Analysis: Utilize remote sensing data from satellites and other sources to extract meaningful insights about various environmental phenomena, including but not limited to agriculture, ecosystems, biodiversity, and climate patterns.
- Causal Inference and Discovery: Develop methodologies for causal inference and discovery in complex environmental systems, aiming to understand cause-and-effect relationships to inform evidence-based decision-making.
- AI and Machine Learning Development: Apply advanced machine learning techniques, including predictive modeling and clustering, to analyze large-scale Earth Observation datasets and develop AI-based solutions for environmental research.
- Sustainable Agriculture and Ecosystem Research: Explore the integration of AI technologies in optimizing agricultural practices, improving crop yield predictions, and enhancing resource efficiency and its impact to sustainable ecosystems.
- Climate Change Impact Assessment: Investigate the impact of climate change on natural ecosystems, identifying patterns, and trends using Earth Observation data to aid in the development of climate adaptation and mitigation strategies.
- Paper Writing: Prepare applied research papers, technical reports, and scientific publications, showcasing the results of the research conducted, and contribute to the dissemination of findings in relevant academic journals and conferences.
- Participation in European Projects - Contribution to proposal writing, project realisation, and deliverable preparation: Our research and technical outputs are mainly realized in the context of EU, ESA and other funding Institutions’ projects. As part of our team, you will actively participate in such projects and contribute to proposal writing for attracting new funding in collaboration with the Project Managers of the unit. Your involvement in collaborating with other institutions and organizations across Europe will foster a dynamic and collaborative research environment, driving the advancement of our mission in agro-environmental research. Your participation in projects will require the participation of the team undertaking the preparation of deliverables and reports.
- Travelling: In the context of working in EU-funded projects and making research publications, you will occassionally travel across Europe and the world, to participate in plenary meetings, and present scientific results.
Qualifications:
- Master's degree or higher in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Environmental Sciences, or a related field with a focus on Earth Observation data analysis and AI applications.
- Demonstrated experience in applying machine learning, statistical modeling, and data analysis techniques to complex datasets.
- Knowledge of causal inference and/or causal discovery methods is highly desired.
- Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, along with experience working with geospatial data, relevant libraries and frameworks (e.g., GeoPandas, doWhy, scikit-learn).
- Proven track record of scientific publications in relevant fields is a bonus.
- Strong problem-solving skills, analytical mindset, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a research team.
- English language proficiency preferably at C2 level, both written and spoken.
Join us at the National Observatory of Athens to make a meaningful impact on cutting-edge research that contributes to understanding and addressing critical environmental challenges through the integration of Earth Observation data and AI technologies. We offer a stimulating and collaborative work environment with opportunities for professional growth and participation in prestigious European, national, and commercial projects. To learn more about our team's projects and research, visit our GitHub page: https://github.com/Agri-Hub.
We Offer: A high competitive remuneration package based on the qualifications of the candidate including all legal deductions and taxes.
Indicative start date: October 2023
Deadline for CVs: September 30th, 2023
How to apply: Interested applicants should send their CVs to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. You don’t need to send a cover letter.
Operational Unit BEYOND Center of IAASARS/NOA is an equal opportunity employer