Research Scientist — AI for Earth Observation

Jülich, Germany

Your Job:

• Design, optimize, and operate inference and fine-tuning workflows for foundation models in EO
• Implement models on JAIF’s infrastructure and build reliable, reproducible data flows for large EO datasets and workflows
• Lead performance engineering (parallelization, optimization, benchmarking) for adaptation and inference at scale
• Work closely with industry partners and public agencies; provide expert user support for JAIF
• Publish in peer-reviewed venues and present results at scientific meetings
• Contribute to educational activities (courses, hackathons, community events)

Your Profile:

• Excellent master’s degree or subsequent PhD degree in computer science, mathematics, physics, or a similar field and industry experience
• Strong software engineering fundamentals and hands-on experience with HPC systems; parallel / distributed programming and/or solid UNIX skills
• Proven experience in operating machine learning (ML) in production; ability to design, automate, and maintain end-to-end ML lifecycles, including reproducible training / fine-tuning runs and experiment tracking
• Evidence of impact through publications and/or open-source contributions
• Self-motivated personality with a curiosity for working in a multidisciplinary team environment on scientifically challenging problems
• Very good command of written and spoken English is required to facilitate clear and effective communication within our global research environment

Our Offer:

• Innovation and technology: Work on frontiers of scientific and technological challenges with access to cutting-edge and unique supercomputing systems, including Quantum Computers and JUPITER, the first Exascale computer in Europe.
• Knowledge and further training: Your professional development is important to us – we provide targeted, individual support.
• Work-life balance: The option of flexible working (in terms of location) is generally available after consultation and in line with upcoming tasks and (on-site) appointments.
• Flexibility: Flexible working time models, including options close to full-time, allow you to tailor your working hours to suit your individual needs.
• Leave: You will receive 30 days of leave plus additional days off (e.g., between Christmas and New Year’s Day).
• Fair remuneration: Depending on your existing qualifications and the tasks assigned to you, you will be classified in pay grade 13 of the TVöD-Bund (Collective Agreement for the Public Service).
• Fixed-term: The position is limited to two years.
• Support for international employees: Our International Advisory Service makes it easier for international employees to get started.

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds. Further information on diversity and equal opportunities can be found at various links provided.