Internal Research Fellow; PostDoc in Cal​/Val, Data Quality & Algorithm Evolution; BIOMASS mission

Position: Internal Research Fellow (PostDoc) in Cal/Val, Data Quality & Algorithm Evolution (BIOMASS mission)
Location: Frascati

Internal Research Fellow (Post Doc) in Cal/Val, Data Quality & Algorithm Evolution (BIOMASS mission)
Job

Requisition  Posted: 24 June 2026

Closing Date: 22 July 2026 23:59 CET/CESTPublication:
External Only Type of Appointment:
Internal Research Fellow Directorate:
Earth Observation Programmes Workplace:
Frascati, ITGrade Band: F2 - F2

Location:

ESRIN, Frascati, Italy Overview As  a research fellow, you will be part of the Earth Observation (EO) Mission Management and Product Quality Division within the Directorate of Earth Observation Programmes at ESA’s Earth Observation Centre: ESRIN. The division manages ESA’s Earth observation missions, develops ground processors, monitors sensor performance and ensures data and product quality. You will join the section in charge of sensor performance, data quality, algorithm development, calibration and validation for ESA EO missions, with a focus on the ESA Biomass mission.

Mission and Activities The Biomass mission exploits novel observation techniques such as SAR tomography and polarimetric SAR interferometry to map forest biomass. The role involves developing and refining calibration algorithms, validation tools, processing algorithms and open‑science platforms (e.g. the Mission Algorithm and Analysis Platform – MAAP). Synergies with other missions (NISAR, GEDI) will be explored.

Explore novel calibration algorithms, products and tools to maximise the impact of the Biomass mission, especially during commissioning and early exploitation phases.

Study novel approaches for calibration and validation of mission products.

Conduct research on the potential evolution of processing algorithms and tools and their impact on scientific return.

Support open science by linking open‑source processors, open validation tools, open reference data and the Mission Algorithm and Analysis Platform (MAAP).Explore synergies between above‑ground biomass density (AGBD) products from Biomass, NISAR and GEDI missions.

Qualifications

Education:

PhD in physics, engineering or Earth science, with peer‑reviewed publications on topics relevant to SAR data for forest applications. Preference for candidates within five years of PhD completion.

Demonstrated familiarity with the ESA Biomass mission and its objectives.

Experience with airborne SAR data and/or processing of SAR data.

Experience with EO remote‑sensing algorithm development and EO product validation.

Experience with open source programming using Python and C/C++.Desired Experience / Additional Skills Full‑pol SAR and/or P‑band SAR.Advanced SAR processing techniques such as tomographic SAR and PolInSAR.Low‑frequency SAR data (e.g., L‑band) and LIDAR data applied to forestry.

Knowledge of the Biomass processing chain and quality tools.

Image processing tools such as QGIS or SNAP.Behavioral Competencies Result orientation.

Operational efficiency.

Fostering cooperation.

Relationship management.

Continuous improvement.

Forward thinking.

Language Requirements The working languages of the Agency are English and French. A good knowledge of one of these is required. Knowledge of another Member State language is an asset.

Additional Information Applicants must submit a CV, a motivation letter and a research proposal no more than 5 pages. Successful candidates may be required to undergo selection tests and a background screening in compliance with ESA security procedures. The role is open to nationals of EU Member States, Associate Member States, Cooperating States and European Cooperating States as defined by ESA.Diversity,

Equity and InclusivenessESA is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to diversity and an inclusive working environment.

Contactcontact.human.resources

Legal Notice / EEOPersonnel shall be recruited on the basis of qualifications, ensuring an adequate distribution of posts among nationals of the Member States.
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