Research Assistant in Cartography/Remote Sensing

University of Göttingen

At the University of Göttingen -Public Law Foundation-, Geographisches Institut - Abt. Kartogr. / Fernerkundung, there is a position as

Research assistant PhD candidate (all genders welcome)
Entgeltgruppe 13 TV-L/65%

Starting date is 5/1/2026. The position is limited to 30.04.2029.

Remuneration will be according to pay group 13 of the German collective agreement for the public service of the federal states (TV-L 13). The successful candidate will have the opportunity to engage with a vibrant and international community of scientists through the Georg-August University School of Science (GAUSS).

Project Description

Remote sensing using multi-angular drone data opens up new possibilities for the precise analysis of agroecosystems. In the DFG-funded project ON-Cerco, and in cooperation with the Institute for Sugar Beet Research, we are investigating how these innovative data can be used for the detection and quantification of plant diseases. The goal is to develop robust algorithms for the identification and quantification of plant diseases. This is intended to contribute to a reduction in the use of plant protection products. In doing so, the project supports the objectives of the EU Green Deal, in particular the “Farm to Fork” strategy to halve the use of plant protection products by 2030. The results will provide important foundations for sustainable agriculture and digitalization in the agricultural sector and can be transferred to other crops and regions.

Your Tasks

• Analysis and evaluation of an existing multi-angular, multispectral, and multi-seasonal drone dataset.
• Investigation of functional plant traits (e.g., leaf angle) with regard to their relevance for the development of plant diseases.
• Development of innovative methods integrating satellite data, including the application of super-resolution and segmentation algorithms.
• Design and development of new research approaches for the use of multi-angular drone data in the fields of phytopathology, land use change, and agricultural science.

Your Profile

• At least a good university degree (Master’s or Diplom) in geosciences, geography, computer science, environmental sciences, agricultural sciences, or related disciplines
• Very good proficiency in German and/or English (at least C1 level)
• Willingness to write academic texts and to work in an interdisciplinary team
• At least foundational knowledge of data science (R and/or Python)
• Solid knowledge in at least two of the following areas:
  • Optical remote sensing
  • Plant diseases and vegetation analysis
  • Ability to familiarize yourself with complex technical concepts (e.g., BRDF, super-resolution)
  • Experience in handling large datasets and an interest in developing new methods

For inquiries, please contact Dr. Rene Heim (phone: +49 551 39-28003, email: rene.heim@uni-goettingen.de) or Ms. Martina Beck (phone: +49 551 39-29805, email: mbeck1@gwdg.de) at the front office.

Please upload your application in one pdf file including the usual documents until 1/31/2026 on the application portal of the university using this link: Application Portal. For more information get in touch with Martina Beck directly via E-Mail: martina.beck@geo.uni-goettingen.de, Tel. 004955139-9805.