PhD Stipend in Environmental Biomonitoring: Drone and AI-based Wildlife Monitoring at Aalborg University Aalborg University in Denmark

Aalborg University’s Faculty of Engineering and Science, Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, invites applications for a fully funded PhD stipend in Environmental Biomonitoring. The position is part of the doctoral program in Biotechnology, Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, and is based in Aalborg, Denmark. The successful candidate will join the 'Environmental Biomonitoring' research group, a dynamic and internationally recognized team with access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and strong academic and public sector collaborations.

This three-year research project centers on monitoring the movements and behavior of red deer in Vejlerne using advanced drone technology and AI-based data analysis. Key tasks include mapping reed bed dynamics and deer trails, comparing current patterns with historical aerial imagery, and assessing the resilience of reed beds under grazing pressure and climate change. The candidate will plan and conduct regular drone flights, process video data, and apply AI models to enhance population and behavioral analyses. The project integrates fieldwork with statistical and spatial analysis using RStudio and GIS tools.

Beyond research, the PhD student will publish findings in national and international journals, participate in outreach activities, and contribute to supervising student projects. Teaching responsibilities within ecology and biology, as well as involvement in project-based student research, are expected. All educational programs at Aalborg University are based on Problem Based Learning, emphasizing student research projects each semester. An external research stay at another European university is anticipated during the PhD.

Supervision will be provided by Senior Researcher Sussie Pagh and Professor Cino Pertoldi. The ideal candidate will have experience with wildlife monitoring techniques such as thermal drones and AI modeling, and be proficient in Python, RStudio, YOLO, SLEAP, LabGym, and GIS tools. Strong Danish and English language skills are preferred, as dissemination through lectures and popular science articles is part of the role.

Applicants must hold a Master's degree and will be enrolled as a PhD student at the Doctoral School of Engineering and Science, in accordance with Danish Ministerial regulations. The stipend covers three years of salary and employment terms as per the AC collective agreement. The department offers a supportive, inclusive, and flexible work environment, with a culture of openness, curiosity, and collaboration.

To apply, submit your application, CV, diplomas, and other relevant documents via Aalborg University's recruitment system. The application should detail your motivation and qualifications. For further information, visit the department website or contact the supervisors listed in the job post. The application deadline is February 1, 2025, or as soon as possible thereafter. All applicants will be informed about the shortlisting process and assessment outcomes.

This opportunity is ideal for candidates passionate about environmental science, wildlife monitoring, and the application of cutting-edge technology in ecological research.