PhD Position in Development of Machine Learning–Remote Sensing Strategies for Maritime Management in Ice-Covered Marine Environments Tallinn University of Technology in Estonia

This PhD position at Tallinn University of Technology offers an exciting opportunity to advance maritime management in ice-covered marine environments using machine learning and remote sensing. The project is supervised by Full Professor Artu Ellmann (Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Road Engineering and Geodesy Research Group) and Assistant Professor Nicole Camille Delpeche-Ellmann (School of Science, Department of Cybernetics, Laboratory of Wave Engineering). The research focuses on developing integrated methodologies for vessel routing in sea-ice environments, combining multi-source sea-level data and harmonizing them to a common vertical datum using geoid modeling.

Recent advances in remote sensing (ICESat-2, CryoSat-2, GNSS) and machine learning enable high-resolution measurements and real-time data integration in challenging polar regions. The candidate will develop machine and deep learning models to forecast sea-level variability and sea-ice conditions, improving navigation safety and efficiency for large vessels operating in hazardous Arctic and Baltic waters. The project involves harmonizing datasets from remote sensing, in situ observations, and hydrodynamic models, and validating results through field experiments and statistical analysis.

Responsibilities include developing convolutional neural networks and other machine learning techniques, merging sea level, sea ice, and bathymetry data for adaptive routing, and performing sensitivity analyses (RMS error, scatter index, error budgets). The candidate will contribute to related research activities, present findings at scientific workshops, and assist in field campaigns. The research group is actively involved in international collaborations, including the Baltic Sea Chart Datum 2000 and European Space Agency projects, and offers extensive opportunities for conference visits, research stays, and networking with leading universities and research centers.

Applicants must have an M.Sc. in geodesy, computing, or a related discipline (Earth Sciences, Marine Engineering, Mathematics, Physics), advanced programming skills (Python, C++, MATLAB), and strong analytical and writing abilities. Beneficial experience includes scientific software, statistics, supervision, and science popularization. The position is a 4-year full-time PhD with additional funds for research training, conferences, and international mobility. Qualified women are encouraged to apply as part of the group’s commitment to increasing diversity in Geomatics and Engineering.

To apply, visit the TalTech PhD admission page and submit your CV, motivation letter, degree certificates, research plan, and passport copy to [email protected]. For further information, contact Prof Artu Ellmann. The application deadline is April 1, 2026.

The Department of Civil Engineering and Architecture and the Laboratory of Wave Engineering at TalTech are renowned for their interdisciplinary research in geodesy, marine engineering, and coastal management. The research group’s expertise in geoid modeling, GNSS positioning, and wave dynamics provides a strong foundation for this project, which aims to deliver practical solutions for sustainable maritime management in the face of climate-driven environmental change.