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Research Staff (PhD Position) for the topic “Hyperspectral remote sensing for mapping the spatial distribution of organic carbon and soil moisture”

Research Staff (PhD Position) for the topic “Hyperspectral remote sensing for mapping the spatial distribution of organic carbon and soil moisture”

(salary scale 13 TV-L, 65 %)

 

Nestled in a modern city surrounded by nature and with an exceptional standard of living, ɫƵ offers excellent working conditions in a vibrant scientific community.

The Institute of Earth System Sciences / Section Soil Science welcomes applications for the following position within the ZERN-funded Research Project CROWNS, starting May 1st, 2026: Research Staff (PhD Position) for the topic “Hyperspectral remote sensing for mapping the spatial distribution of organic carbon and soil moisture” (salary scale 13 TV-L, 65 %)

 

The fixed-term position is limited until February 28th, 2029.

The research project “Optimization of crop rotation in conditions of water and nutrient scarcity – field and landscape-related assessments of the adaptation of arable farming in Lower Saxony (CROWNS)” is being carried out in cooperation with the Institute for Sugar Beet Research Göttingen (IfZ). The project deals with the evaluation of specific adaptation strategies for plant and soil management in Lower Saxony, focusing on field- and regional-level research into the effects on resource use efficiency at the interface between plants and soil. In particular, the “Hyperspectral Remote Sensing” work package investigates the potential of newly available hyperspectral remote sensing techniques at field level (UAV) and landscape level (satellite) for determining the organic carbon content (SOC) and soil moisture in the topsoil using in-situ soil data for calibration.

Your role 

  • You will process and analyze optical remote sensing data on a field scale from a hyperspectral drone and on a landscape scale from hyperspectral and multispectral satellites (EnMAP, S2) over agricultural croplands.
  • You will be responsible for planning and conducting field campaigns on site in Lower Saxony in accordance with remote sensing acquisitions.
  • You will conduct field campaigns to collect soil samples at the study sites for the calibration and validation of remote sensing models.
  • You will determine the organic carbon content and soil moisture based on machine learning approaches and remote sensing linked to in-situ soil data.
  • You will work closely with project partners on field work and laboratory analyses.
  • You will participate in project-related seminars and workshops and present your own project results at national and international conferences.
  • You will write scientific publications on your project results.

Who are we looking for?

  • You have an academic university degree in soil science, geoscience, environmental science, remote sensing, or a related field.
  • You are fluent in spoken and written English.
  • You are willing to work in a dedicated team with an interdisciplinary focus.
  • You are pursuing a doctorate.

In addition, we are looking for a candidate with the following:

  • Proficiency in MS Office or similar software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) is required.
  • We expect teamwork and communication skills.
  • Experience with soil chemistry and soil physics analysis methods is an advantage; knowledge of spectral analysis is an advantage.
  • Experience in processing and evaluating remote sensing optical data/hyperspectral data, knowledge of GIS, and programming skills are an advantage.
  • Field experience is desirable.
  • A Class B driver's license.

Equal opportunities and diversity are core values at ɫƵ. Our goal is to tap into individual potential and open up possibilities. We therefore welcome applications from anyone interested in the position, irrespective of gender, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or ideology, disability, age, sexual orientation and identity.

We strive towards a balanced and diverse workforce and a reduction in under-representation in accordance with the Lower Saxony Equal Rights Act (Niedersächsisches Gleichberechtigungsgesetz – NGG). We therefore also welcome applications from women for the above-mentioned position. Preference will be given to equally-qualified candidates with disabilities. 

Why join us?

With more than 5.000 employees, ɫƵ is one of the largest and most attractive employers in the Hannover region. We offer a vibrant interdisciplinary and international working environment, and promote personal and professional development ranging from subject-related skills to leadership and languages.

Remote work (mobile work, work from home) can be arranged upon request. We support employees with , through services such as back-up childcare, childcare during school holidays, and parent-child offices, as well as providing individual advice regarding family responsibilities and caring for dependants.

To promote health and well-being among employees, we offer an extensive  with over 100 different sports, as well as a fitness centre with a sauna and climbing space. Health management measures, such as courses on stress management, good nutrition and relaxation, aim to ensure a healthy workplace.

 

Additional information

For further information, please contact Prof. Dr. Sabine Chabrillat (tel.: +49 (0) 331 6264 1108, email: chabrillat@ifbk.uni-hannover.de).

Please submit your application and supporting documents by April 10th, 2026 electronically to 

Email: chabrillat@ifbk.uni-hannover.de   

or alternatively by post to:
Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Universität Hannover
Institut für Erdsystemwissenschaften / Abteilung Bodenkunde 
Prof. Dr. Sabine Chabrillat
Herrenhäuser Str. 2, 30419 Hannover

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