Forest Applications Scientist

We are looking for a Forest Applications Scientist with expertise in Earth Observation (EO) forest applications in the Green Solutions Division, Climate Action, Sustainability and Science Department, Directorate of Earth Observation Programmes.

The role: Reporting to the Head of the Applications Section, you will be responsible for defining and implementing projects supporting the development of innovative Earth Observation forest-related applications, with specific focus on open source and new technologies. You will manage Earth Observation applications research and development projects in the context of ESA programmes, particularly for the EO Science for Society activities. Your duties will cover a wide range of research and development projects for forest applications to enable and facilitate international and European policies relating, for example, to biomass and carbon estimation, adaptive forest management, forest health and conditions, forest ecosystem services and carbon markets, primarily with a focus on a satellite multi-mission approach covering both optical and SAR (multi-frequency) data, considering both existing and upcoming missions such as BIOMASS and also EO commercial datasets.

Job requirements: A master's degree in remote sensing, geophysics or relevant subjects in relation to forest applications is required for this post. At least five years of experience, and/or a PhD, in relevant remote sensing applications development and research with a multi-mission approach will be considered an asset.

Benefits: ESA is an equal opportunity employer, committed to achieving diversity within the workforce and creating an inclusive working environment. We therefore welcome applications from all qualified candidates irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, beliefs, age, disability or other characteristics. Applications from women are encouraged. At the Agency we value diversity, and we welcome people with disabilities. Whenever possible, we seek to accommodate individuals with disabilities by providing the necessary support at the workplace. The Human Resources Department can also provide assistance during the recruitment process.

Applications details: In principle, recruitment will be within the advertised grade band (A2-A4). However, if the selected candidate has less than four years of relevant professional experience following the completion of the master’s degree, the position may be filled at A1 level. During the recruitment process, the Agency may request applicants to undergo selection tests. Additionally, successful candidates will need to undergo basic screening before appointment, which will be conducted by an external background screening service, in compliance with the European Space Agency's security procedures.