Research Assistant, Remote Sensing, Helsinki

Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke)

Organisation/Company Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) Research Field Agricultural sciences » Forest sciences Computer science » Programming Computer science » Other Environmental science » Earth science Environmental science » Ecology Environmental science » Other Geography » Other Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Final date to receive applications 30 Jan 2026 - 14:00 (UTC) Country Finland Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?

Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Research Assistant wanted! Join research on forest and peatland biodiversity and restoration. Work with remote sensing data, machine learning, biodiversity data, maps of species richness, plus closely collaborate with the EU-project FORbEST.

We are hiring a Research Assistant to support projects on forest and peatland biodiversity and restoration. The work involves geospatial and remote sensing data (satellite imagery, drones, LiDAR), with possible fieldwork and project support. Tasks will be tailored to your skills and interests. Work focuses on modelling local species diversity using remote sensing data and the role involves analysing biodiversity data from case studies and repositories such as GBIF and the European Vegetation Archive to generate baseline datasets for calibrating and validating predictive models of biodiversity-rich forests.

Using machine learning (ML) algorithms, the Research Assistant will help predict the occurrence of biodiversity-rich forests and contribute to the creation of comprehensive maps highlighting hotspots of species richness. The position includes close collaboration with partners in the FORbEST project.

• A solid background in remote sensing
• Strong computer and software skills, including proficiency in R, Python, and ArcGIS
• Knowledge of forest and peatland biodiversity
• Good command of written and spoken English

The ideal candidate is proactive, committed, and efficient. You should be in the final stages of your master’s studies or have already completed a master’s degree. The position may also provide opportunities to develop an M.Sc thesis topic during the internship. Relevant fields of study include e.g., forestry, environmental science, physical geography, environmental technology and ecology.

During your employment, the Natural Resources Institute Finland offers a working environment that supports well-being and very comprehensive occupational health care.

The person selected for the position might need to undergo standard security clearance vetting with the applicant’s consent (Security Clearance Act 726/2014). More detailed information on the procedure and the subject's rights is available o.fi .

We primarily wish to receive applications electronically via the Valtiolle.fi service. However, you may also apply for this position by submitting your application to the registry office’s postal address. In this case, the r of the position must be clearly indicated in the subject line of the email, in the application itself, and on the envelope. The letter or email must arrive by the end of the application period.

Late applications will not be considered. Application documents will not be returned. Based on the information provided in the application documents, including education, work experience and other relevant factors, applicants will be selected for interview and eligibility requirements will also be assessed with regard to expected education.

The Registry of Natural Resources Institute Finland