⛔ This position is no longer available.
University: Norwegian University of Life Sciences
Country: Norway
Deadline: 2026-05-03
Fields: Remote Sensing, Artificial Intelligence, Forest Sciences, Data Science, Environmental Sciences
Are you passionate about harnessing the power of artificial intelligence and remote sensing to revolutionize the way we manage and understand forest ecosystems? If your academic interests lie at the intersection of environmental science, data analytics, and cutting-edge AI, this opportunity at the Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) could be the perfect next step for your research career.
About the University or Research Institute
The Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), located in Ås, Norway, stands as one of Europe’s leading institutions in environmental and life sciences. NMBU is renowned for its commitment to sustainability, interdisciplinary collaboration, and innovation. The university offers a vibrant academic environment, attracting students and researchers from across the globe. With its modern campus, state-of-the-art research facilities, and a strong focus on real-world impact, NMBU provides an exceptional setting for doctoral research.
The Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Natural Resource Management (MINA) at NMBU is a hub for research and education in fields such as forestry, ecology, geology, hydrology, and renewable energy. The faculty is distinguished by its dynamic research culture, international collaborations, and a mission to deliver high-quality, impactful research. With approximately 200 staff members, 90 PhD students, and 650 students, MINA offers an inclusive and stimulating academic community.
Norway itself is internationally recognized for its pristine natural landscapes, high standard of living, and strong emphasis on sustainability. Living and studying in Norway means access to stunning forests, fjords, and mountains, as well as a society that values innovation, equality, and environmental stewardship.
Research Topic and Significance
The focus of these two PhD positions is the development and application of artificial intelligence and remote sensing techniques to enhance forest mapping and promote precision forestry. As digitalization and new sensor technologies generate vast amounts of data, there is an urgent need for advanced methods to analyze this information for sustainable forest management.
Forests play a critical role in climate regulation, biodiversity conservation, and resource provision. Precision forestry, supported by AI and remote sensing, enables more accurate forest inventories, better monitoring of environmental conditions, and improved management practices. By integrating data from drones, satellites, and ground-based sensors with machine learning models, this research aims to set new standards in forest ecosystem analysis and contribute to more sustainable use of natural resources.
This project is a key part of the SmartForest center for research-based innovation, led by the Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research (NIBIO) with NMBU as the main research partner. The outcomes are expected to have significant scientific and practical impacts, both in Norway and internationally.
Project Details
The successful PhD candidates will engage in the following activities:
– Develop machine learning models to generate forest information at both local and landscape scales.
– Innovate AI-driven solutions for sustainable forest management.
– Compare new machine learning approaches with existing methods to evaluate their effectiveness.
– Utilize remotely sensed data, including images, lidar, and photogrammetric point clouds acquired from drones, aircraft, and satellites.
– Contribute to the SmartForest research center, collaborating with leading experts in forestry, AI, and remote sensing.
The positions are fully funded for three years and are placed within the government pay scale for PhD Fellows. Candidates will be expected to develop a research plan early in their appointment and complete their doctorate within the scholarship period.
Candidate Profile
Ideal applicants for these positions will have:
– A Master’s degree in forest sciences or a closely related field with a focus on remote sensing or data science.
– Strong academic performance, with grades corresponding to a B or above in the ECTS grading system.
– Demonstrated expertise and interest in the research subject.
– Competence in remote sensing, machine learning, and programming.
– Experience or interest in Nordic forest management is advantageous.
– Analytical skills, creativity, motivation, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
– Proficiency in written and spoken English; knowledge of a Scandinavian language is a plus.
– A driving license (category B) is required.
Applicants should be ready to document their qualifications and motivation, and to work in a collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment.
Application Process
To apply online for these PhD positions, candidates must use the University’s Web Recruitment System. Clicking the ‘Apply for this job’ button on the official advertisement page will direct applicants to the registration and application form.
Application deadline: 2026-05-03
Applicants must submit the following documents:
– Motivation letter (maximum 1 page)
– Complete CV (entered into JobbNorge’s CV form)
– Certified copies of academic diplomas and certificates (in Norwegian or English, or with English translation)
– Diploma supplement or equivalent for studies completed outside Norway
– Documentation of English proficiency according to NMBU PhD regulations
– Names and contact details for two references
– Additional relevant documentation (e.g., list of scientific works, with description of contributions where applicable)
Applicants are advised to review the NMBU PhD Regulations and the MINA PhD programme requirements before applying.
For full details and to apply, please visit the official position page:
https://www.jobbnorge.no/en/available-jobs/job/298686/two-phd-scholarships-remote-sensing-and-ai-for-improved-forest-mapping-and-precision-forestry
Conclusion
This is a unique opportunity to join a world-class university and contribute to innovative research at the forefront of precision forestry, AI, and remote sensing. If you are eager to make a difference in sustainable forest management and advance your academic career in a supportive and international environment, do not hesitate to apply. Explore similar opportunities and stay connected for more updates in this exciting field.
Questions & Answers
Question: What makes NMBU an attractive destination for international PhD students?
NMBU offers a vibrant international community, state-of-the-art research infrastructure, and a strong commitment to sustainability and interdisciplinary collaboration. Norway’s high quality of life and beautiful natural environment further enhance the PhD experience.
Question: Do I need to know Norwegian to apply for this position?
Proficiency in English is required, and all application documents can be submitted in English. Knowledge of a Scandinavian language is advantageous but not mandatory.
Question: What kind of research outputs can I expect from this project?
PhD candidates will develop innovative machine learning models for forest mapping, publish scientific articles, and contribute to the advancement of precision forestry practices.
Question: Is the funding for the PhD position sufficient for living in Norway?
The positions are fully funded according to the Norwegian government pay scale for PhD Fellows, providing a competitive salary that covers living expenses in Norway.
Want to calculate your PhD admission chances? Try it here:
https://phdfinder.com/phd_admission_chance_calculator/
We’re an independent team helping students find opportunities.
Found this opportunity helpful? Support us with a coffee!
