PhD Candidate in Spectral Imaging for Cultural Heritage Diagnostics and Preservation Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Norway

The Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) invites applications for a PhD Candidate in Spectral Imaging, based at the Colourlab research group in Gjøvik, Norway. NTNU is Norway’s leading academic IT environment, offering a wide range of theoretical and applied IT programmes and fostering a strong international research community. The university is committed to diversity, inclusion, and knowledge for a better world.

This PhD position is part of the European MSCA Doctoral Network UNVEIL, which aims to transform diagnostics and preservation of cultural heritage by developing innovative non-destructive evaluation techniques and advanced digital tools. The successful candidate will collaborate with 11 other PhD candidates across Europe, working towards a common goal of advancing conservation science and public engagement.

The research project, entitled "Multiscale and multimodal spectral image acquisition, integration, analysis and visualization," focuses on developing strategies for acquiring, integrating, analyzing, and visualizing spectral images for scientific analysis of wall paintings. The project utilizes multispectral and hyperspectral imaging technologies across VNIR, SWIR, and MWIR spectral ranges. The candidate will generate spectral libraries, employ multivariate analysis and AI methods for material mapping and classification, and validate results using complementary analytical techniques. Style characterization of paintings will be performed by extracting features such as texture, brushstrokes, cracks, and surface patterns, supporting studies of artists’ techniques, enhanced visualization, and change monitoring over time.

The project also aims to develop a visualization architecture for multiscale and multirange hyperspectral datasets, tailored for conservation professionals and other user groups. Fused HSI data will be applied to investigate painting stratigraphy and detect superficial and subsurface disorders, improving understanding of artworks’ condition and conservation needs. Key exploitable results include an open-source software suite for material mapping based on multimodal-multiscale spectral imaging.

Duties include completing doctoral education, conducting high-quality research, publishing academic and popular science work, participating in the Colourlab research group, engaging in common research and training activities with UNVEIL partners, and contributing to deliverables. International activities such as conferences and research stays at Newcastle University (UK) and CNRS-LRMH (France) are foreseen. The position is temporary, full-time, and based in Gjøvik, a town known for its natural beauty and vibrant community.

Applicants must have a relevant Master’s degree in computer science, electrical engineering, imaging science, or equivalent, corresponding to a five-year Norwegian course with 120 credits at master’s level. Master students may apply if the degree is completed by October 1, 2026. Candidates must not have been awarded a doctoral degree at the date of recruitment and must have a strong academic background (average grade B or better). Required skills include experience with imaging, image processing, visualization, and excellent programming skills. Excellent oral and written English communication is essential. Candidates must meet NTNU’s Doctoral Programme admission requirements and comply with the MSCA mobility rule (not have resided or carried out main activity in Norway for more than 12 months in the 36 months before recruitment). Preferred qualifications include experience with spectral imaging, conservation science, and interdisciplinary/international research environments.

The position offers a gross salary of NOK 550,800 per annum, with a 2% statutory contribution to the State Pension Fund deducted. The employment period is three years, conditional on external funding. Benefits include career guidance, follow-up during the PhD period, access to employee benefits, and free Norwegian language training at a basic level. NTNU values diversity and encourages applications from all backgrounds.

To apply, submit your application and required attachments electronically via Jobbnorge.no by the deadline (15 May 2026). Required documents include transcripts and diplomas, CV, Master’s thesis or draft, project proposal, motivation letter, scientific publications, and contact information for three referees. If invited to interview, bring certified copies of certificates and diplomas. For questions about the position, contact Professor Jon Yngve Hardeberg at [email protected].

This opportunity is ideal for candidates seeking to advance their expertise in spectral imaging, computer science, and cultural heritage conservation within a dynamic and international research environment.