CREAF is seeking a postdoctoral researcher for the CONCERTO project “Improved Carbon cycle representation through multi-scale models and Earth observation for Terrestrial ecosystems” with ref. HORIZON-CL5-2024-D1-01-07, (Grant Agreement 101185000) and funded by the European Commission.
Earth system models differ widely in their estimates of carbon uptake by ecosystems. This not only makes it difficult to predict future climate conditions, but also makes it difficult to implement policies to mitigate them. To address this, the EU-funded CONCERTO project aims to strengthen European ecosystem research by establishing a consortium of experts in Earth observation, process modelling, data assimilation and machine learning. It will produce high-resolution maps that include carbon cycle layers related to land cover and management, as well as biomass production. By incorporating new data sources, it will also address ecosystem response and vegetation recovery after fires and climate extremes. Overall, CONCERTO will provide efficient models that will improve understanding and facilitate monitoring of the terrestrial carbon cycle.
A full-time contract is offered (37.5 hours per week) with a planned start on March 1, 2026. The initial duration will be 12 months, with the possibility of extension if required and if the budget allows. The gross annual salary offered is €32.802,11 (corresponding to category I4).
Land cover and vegetation classification of terrestrial ecosystems with decametric-resolution satellite data (Landsat and Sentinel-2) and machine learning techniques.
Validation of the land cover and vegetation maps using post-stratified random sampling.
Mapping long-term phenology and land cover change in terrestrial ecosystems using all available satellite products from MODIS to Sentinel including GOME, O-CO2 and others.
Upscaling of in situ measurements of carbon-fluxes using remotely-sensed data and machine learning techniques.
Determination of the effects of global change on vegetation phenology and carbon fluxes in terrestrial ecosystems.
Reporting and communication tasks of the project related to his/her working area.
Writing papers on global carbon cycle and terrestrial ecosystems carbon sinks
PhD Degree in remote sensing of terrestrial ecology.
Advanced user of statistical software (Python, R, and MATLAB software).
Advanced user of Google Earth Engine and proven experience with Earth Engine apps.
Proven experience of global-scale land cover classification and validation using decametric-resolution satellite data and machine learning techniques.
Proven experience of more than 4 years in the study of global ecology using remotely-sensed data and in situ measurements of carbon fluxes.
Proven experience of more than 4 years in the study of carbon cycle and on global vegetation responses to elevated CO2 and water availability.
Capacity for teamwork.
Excellent English speaking and writing.
Doctoral degree in global change related subject.
MSc Degree in geospatial sciences.
Work experience working in global ecology centers
Previous experience in managing large geospatial datasets and cloud-based platforms.
Previous experience in the study of the responses of vegetation dynamics to global change.
Candidates with a certified disability of 33% or more will be prioritized, provided the disability is compatible with the position's responsibilities.
Application submission: Interested candidates must apply to the position and attach the required documentation, an English CV, and a cover letter (maximum 500 words) until January 25rd, 2026. Applications submitted through any portal other than CREAF’s job board or not following the indicated instructions will not be accepted.
Pre-selection: Assessment of compliance with the minimum requirements of the job offer.
Selection: Evaluation of shortlisted candidates based on objective criteria, interviews with a short list of candidates, and completion of a proposed exercise.
Final decision: If a suitable candidate is identified, they will be formally notified of the selection, and all other participants in the process will be informed by email.