The Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) is offering a 3-year PhD position within the Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Natural Resources Management (MINA), focused on developing deep learning models for 3D forest point clouds. This position is part of the SmartForest research-driven innovation center, which aims to advance digitalized and sustainable forest management using cutting-edge technologies. The successful candidate will work on developing both supervised and self-supervised deep learning algorithms to process and analyze 3D point cloud data from LiDAR and photogrammetry, with the goal of characterizing forest ecosystem structure and function. The project seeks to push the boundaries of current computer vision models, expanding their applicability from high-resolution, small-area datasets to lower-resolution, landscape-level datasets. The candidate will be expected to contribute to a variety of downstream tasks, including the assessment of forest structure and biodiversity. Applicants must have a master's degree in machine learning, computer science, or a forest-related field with a focus on remote sensing, and demonstrate experience with deep learning. Additional skills in handling forest ecosystem data, 3D point clouds, programming (including Docker and containerization), and proficiency in Norwegian or another Scandinavian language are valued. The position offers a starting salary of NOK 550,800 per year and follows national guidelines for PhD scholars in Norway. The application process requires submission of a motivation letter, CV, certified academic documents, proof of English proficiency, references, and other relevant documentation. The faculty is known for its vibrant research culture and international quality, with expertise spanning geology, hydrology, soil science, environmental chemistry, forestry, ecology, and more. NMBU provides a supportive and interdisciplinary environment, with a strong focus on innovation and collaboration. The application deadline is November 10, 2025. For further information, applicants may contact Professors Rasmus Astrup or Terje Gobakken.

The Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) is offering a fully funded three-year PhD position in the Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Natural Resource Management (MINA), focusing on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and remote sensing for forest mapping. This research opportunity is part of the SmartForest center for research-based innovation, where NMBU is the main research partner alongside the Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research. The project aims to leverage the increasing digitalization and new sensor technologies in forestry, which generate vast amounts of data, to improve the accuracy and utility of forest ecosystem information. The successful candidate will develop machine learning models that integrate data collected by forest machines with remote sensing data, such as images, lidar, and photogrammetric point clouds from drones, aircraft, and satellites. These models will be used to characterize forest structure and support sustainable forest management at both local and landscape scales. The research will involve comparing machine learning approaches with existing methods and evaluating their effectiveness. The position is placed within a vibrant research culture at MINA, which is known for high levels of scientific production and international quality research in fields such as geology, hydrology, soil science, environmental chemistry, forestry, ecology, and natural resource management. Applicants must have a relevant academic background equivalent to a five-year Norwegian degree programme, with 120 ECTS credits at the master's level, including a substantial thesis or written assignment. A minimum average grade of B in the ECTS grading system and documented proficiency in English are required. Preferred qualifications include a master's degree in forest sciences with a focus on remote sensing or data science, competence in machine learning, programming skills, experience in Nordic forest management, and a category B driving license. The position offers a starting salary of NOK 550,800 and follows national guidelines for PhD scholars. The application process requires submission of a motivation letter, CV, certified academic documents, proof of English proficiency, references, and any additional relevant documentation. The deadline for applications is 13th November 2025. For further information, applicants may contact Professor Terje Gobakken at [email protected]. NMBU is committed to diversity and workplace adaptations for persons with disabilities. The university is recognized for its outstanding research, education, and student satisfaction, and offers a unique interdisciplinary environment for its graduates.