The Hydrology, Agriculture and Land Observation (HALO) group at KAUST is seeking high-quality candidates for several Postdoctoral positions in areas related to precision agriculture, agricultural informatics, plant-phenotyping, big-data analytics, and machine learning (we are also on the look-out for high-quality PhD candidates in similar areas). 

These positions include (but are not limited to):

• high-resolution terrestrial remote sensing (Sentinel-2, Planet CubeSats, other satellite platforms) for precision agricultural related studies;
• hyperspectral analysis and interpretation of agricultural systems (satellite, UAV-, field-, or laboratory-based)
• large scale (nation-to-global) mapping and analysis for developing near real-time informatics (e.g. crop-type, planting and harvest dynamics, irrigation scheduling, crop condition, water-use, yield potential etc.) using GEE/AWS (or similar platforms);
• multiple areas of UAV-related research (3D reconstruction, vicarious calibration, multi-sensor fusion, etc.) - ideally with experience in thermal, lidar, multi-spectral or hyper-spectral sensing. 

In addition, we are working with collaborators on projects exploring the application of novel field-based systems (cosmic ray neutron sensor and GNSS-R) in agriculture, as well as emerging carbon accounting approaches (combining high-resolution remote sensing, in-situ sensing, and modeling) of terrestrial landscapes, with a focus on agricultural, desert and mangrove systems (in the context of nature-based solutions to climate change). 

 

The HALO research group consists of about 15 researchers and includes a well-resourced laboratory, supporting infrastructure and state-of-the-art equipment, as well as access to a range of high-performance computing systems. In addition to a generous tax-free salary, benefits such as accommodation, vacation allowance, medical insurance and relocation assistance will also be offered. PhD scholarships include the above, and will also cover the full cost of tuition and an associated stipend. 

To express your interest in any of these positions, please contact Prof Matthew McCabe (matthew.mccabe@kaust.edu.sa) or Dr Kasper Johansen (kasper.johansen@kaust.edu.sa), including a copy of your CV and an expression of interest in one (or more) of the positions. Please include an explanation of your relevant experience and previous publications in these areas, along with the names of two potential referees (referees will not be contacted until after initial screening and interview of prospective candidates).