Postdoc position in remote sensing of wildlife damage in crops

Department of Ecology
The postdoc position is based at the Department of Ecology at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), where we conduct research on populations, communities and ecosystems. We generate knowledge on how land use and climate affect animals, plants, nutrient cycling and greenhouse gas balance, seeking solutions to mitigate climate change, preserve threatened species, benefit biological diversity and ecosystem services in managed landscapes. Active outreach and frequent dialogue with stakeholders are key activities. To generate cutting-edge research and to promote sustainable natural resource management, we build on extensive national and international research collaborations.
Image analysis, drone, satellite, wildlife damages to crops
The postdoc position takes place within a project funded by the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) which aims to develop a machine learning based image recognition method to identify and quantify wildlife-caused damages in crops. Data will be collected from drones and satellites and matched against field measurements, the final goal being to develop solutions for a National wildlife damage survey in agriculture.

The purpose of our research is therefore to develop an automized application aiming to estimate the area, yield loss and the spatial distribution of wildlife damages in agriculture that will be implemented in a National monitoring system. When implemented, generated data will be used in national policy plans and damage prevention actions, and eventually improve our understanding of where and when different ungulate species damage different crops. Finally, if possible, indicators to be used in an early warning system should be developed.

Duties:
We are looking for a highly motivated PhD (preferably within 3 yrs) who will 1) develop machine learning-based regression models to locate areas of damaged crops, 2) develop machine learning-based classification models to discriminate the causes of damages (wildlife, water, drought, insects, etc.) and 3) analyze the spatial patterns of crop damages (distance to roads, farms, woods, etc.) The research will involve several wildlife species, but with an emphasis on large ungulates and particularly wild boar. The project is interdisciplinary, being both intensive in quantitative modelling and requiring an ability to understand ecology, technology and agriculture and their use by different stakeholders.

Qualifications:
PhD degree with a specialization in remote sensing or spatial statistics with some experience in ecology or agriculture. A professional level fluency in English and a demonstrated ability to use computer programming languages for scientific analysis (such as R or Python) are required. Experience in machine learning, image analysis, or engineering system sciences, Bayesian inference, wildlife ecology and scholarly publishing is an advantage. Ability and experience to inform and communicate with diverse stakeholders such as authorities, farmers and other stakeholders is also a merit. Interpersonal skills will form an important part of the candidate selection.

Place of work:
Grimsö, Sweden. With a possible agreement to spend time in Uppsala and Umeå, Sweden.

Form of employment:
Fixed-time employment (2 years).

Extent:
100%.

Starting date:
According to agreement.

Application:
We welcome your application no later than 2022-06-19, use the button below.

With the application should be attached (1) a statement of scientific interests and motivation for applying to this position (max 1500 words), (2) CV including a complete publication list, (3) copies of diplomas, (4) copy of the PhD-thesis, (5) copy of a passport if the applicant is not an  European citizen, (6) a list of at least two reference persons and their contact information, and (7) any written work the candidate believes is relevant for the position.

Please observe that applicant/s called for an interview will be asked to hand in certified copies of certificates, diplomas and transcripts from previous studies at an internationally recognized higher education institution (university or university college) and transcripts in connection to the interview. If the applicant is a foreign citizen we also require a certified copy of the page in a passport with personal data and photography.

Academic union representatives:
https://internt.slu.se/en/my-employment/employee-associations/kontaktpersoner-vid-rekrytering/

The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) is a world-class international university with research, education and environmental assessment within the sciences for sustainable life. Its principal sites are in Alnarp, Umeå and Uppsala, but activities are also conducted at research stations, experimental parks and educational establishments throughout Sweden. We bring together people who have different perspectives, but they all have one and the same goal: to create the best conditions for a sustainable, thriving and better world.

SLU has just over 3,000 employees, 5,000 students and a turnover of SEK 3 billion. The university has invested heavily in a modern, attractive environment on its campuses.

www.slu.se