Postdoctoral Researcher in Remote Sensing of Peatlands

Postdoctoral Researcher in Remote Sensing of Peatlands

Aalto University

Otaniemi, Finland

We are seeking a talented and ambitious Postdoctoral Researcher in Remote Sensing of Peatlands to join the newly established Center of Excellence in Peatlands, Climate Change and Ecological Restoration (PeatResC), funded by the Research Council of Finland, for a three-year position. The preferred starting date for the position is spring 2026.

Your role

The Center of Excellence in Peatlands, Climate Change and Ecological Restoration (PeatResC) is a newly funded, highly competitive Centre of Excellence starting in January 2026, bringing together Aalto University, University of Eastern Finland, Finnish Meteorological Institute and University of Helsinki. PeatResC addresses fundamental questions on ongoing changes in northern peatlands, focusing on climate-change impacts on biodiversity and climate feedbacks, as well as the effects of upcoming large-scale restoration efforts.

The postdoctoral researcher will be based in the PeatResC research team led by Professor Miina Rautiainen at Aalto University and will work in close collaboration with partners across this internationally recognized consortium. The main research responsibilities include the development of novel methods and analysis of remote sensing data to monitor water table dynamics and biophysical properties of northern peatlands, from local to Holarctic scales. The position also involves participation in peatland field measurement campaigns, as well as teaching and student supervision at Aalto University.

The postdoctoral researcher is expected to participate in extended field campaigns during the summer months, including travel for several weeks at a time and work in remote field conditions.

Your experience

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with:

• A doctoral degree in a relevant field
• A strong understanding of the physical principles of remote sensing, and demonstrated experience in developing novel satellite-based remote sensing methods
• A publication record in peer-reviewed, high-quality scientific journals as the first author
• Advanced data analysis and programming skills
• Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills, a proactive and collaborative working style, and excellent written and spoken English

The application will be considered particularly strong if the candidate has one or more of the following:

• Prior knowledge of peatland ecosystems
• Experience in using high-performance computing resources
• Experience conducting fieldwork in remote or logistically demanding environments
• A valid driving license in Finland, and willingness to drive independently during field campaigns