Ghent University
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PhD in Forest Disturbance Monitoring, Digital Twins, and Remote Sensing Ghent University in Belgium
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Computer Science
Funding
Full-time doctoral fellow position for an initial 12 months, extendable to a maximum of 48 months after positive evaluation. Fellowship amount is 100% of the net salary of an AAP member in equal family circumstances; the grant is tax-free if it meets doctoral fellowship regulations.
Deadline
Nov 15, 2026
Country
Belgium
University
Ghent University
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About this position
Ghent University is advertising a PhD / doctoral fellow position in the Department of Environment within Q-ForestLab for the ERC project SPACETWIN: digital twins for understanding forest disturbances and recovery from space.
The project sits at the intersection of Environmental Science, Earth Science, Biology, Computer Science, and Physics. It focuses on forest ecology, remote sensing, satellite data analysis, radiative transfer modelling, 3D forest reconstruction, and terrestrial laser scanning. The research will examine how drought, fire, cyclone, and logging disturbances affect tropical and temperate forests, using detailed 3D “digital twin” forests and multi-sensor Earth observation data.
The successful candidate will work with Prof. Kim Calders and co-supervisor Dr. Niall Origo, and will also interact with Prof. Mathias Disney (University College London). The work includes developing digital twins for optical and microwave radiative transfer modelling, exploring near-real-time inversion of forest disturbances from satellites, and applying the approach to missions such as ESA BIOMASS, NASA GEDI, future NASA EDGE, and JAXA MOLI. Fieldwork in Australia may be required.
Eligibility highlights include an MSc degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field, strong programming skills in R/C++/Python, prior satellite remote sensing experience, and a good command of English. Experience with vegetation radiative transfer modelling and terrestrial laser scanning is preferred but not mandatory.
This is a full-time doctoral fellow appointment for 12 months initially, with the possibility of extension up to 48 months after positive evaluation. The fellowship is described as 100% of the net salary of an AAP member in equal family circumstances and is tax-free if it meets the doctoral fellowship regulations.
The position is based in Ghent, Belgium. Applications must be submitted via the Google Form link provided by the university. Deadline: 15 November 2026 (midnight CEST).
Funding details
Full-time doctoral fellow position for an initial 12 months, extendable to a maximum of 48 months after positive evaluation. Fellowship amount is 100% of the net salary of an AAP member in equal family circumstances; the grant is tax-free if it meets doctoral fellowship regulations.
What's required
MSc degree or equivalent in a relevant field such as Bioscience-Engineering, Remote Sensing, Surveying, Physics, Geosciences, Environmental Sciences, or Computer Science. Applicants should be fluent in at least one programming language (R, C++, or Python), have prior experience with satellite remote sensing and satellite data analysis, and preferably understand or have experience with radiative transfer modelling in vegetation. Experience with terrestrial laser scanning and 3D forest modelling is a plus but not required. A strong interest in forest ecology and nature, willingness to contribute to fieldwork, and good written and spoken English are required.
How to apply
Submit your CV and application letter through the Google Form provided in the post. If you have problems with the submission form, contact Prof. Kim Calders by email.
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Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.