Fully Funded PhD Scholarship in Finland 2027: Multi-Temporal Laser Scanning for Forest Growth and Wood Quality Research
The University of Eastern Finland (UEF) is offering a fully funded doctoral researcher position for international applicants interested in forest remote sensing, geospatial technologies, forest measurement science, and sustainable forest management.
The position is part of the prestigious Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions COFUND Doctoral Programme for Advancing Forest-Based Bioeconomy (DP-FOBI). The selected doctoral researcher will join the Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology, School of Forest Sciences, at the Joensuu campus in Finland.
This four-year PhD project focuses on using advanced laser scanning technologies to understand tree structure, monitor forest growth, and evaluate wood quality in standing trees. By combining time-series laser scanning data, 3D forest modelling, and advanced data analysis methods, the research aims to develop innovative approaches for more accurate forest monitoring and resource management. The application deadline is 10 August 2026.
PhD Scholarship Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Host University | University of Eastern Finland |
| Country | Finland |
| Campus | Joensuu Campus |
| Faculty | Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology |
| School | School of Forest Sciences |
| Research Area | Remote Sensing, Forest Modelling, Laser Scanning |
| Programme | MSCA COFUND DP-FOBI Doctoral Programme |
| Degree | Doctoral Degree (PhD) |
| Duration | 4 Years |
| Position Type | Full-time Temporary Employment |
| Starting Date | By 1 April 2027 |
| Application Deadline | 10 August 2026 |
Research Topic: Using Laser Scanning Technology to Understand Forest Dynamics
Accurate forest management depends on reliable information about individual trees and forest stands. However, measuring forests at large scales is challenging because of:
- Extensive forest areas
- Long tree growth cycles
- Complex tree structures
- Changing environmental conditions
Laser scanning technology provides new opportunities to overcome these challenges by creating detailed three-dimensional representations of forests.
The technology works by sending laser pulses toward surrounding objects and measuring the time required for the reflected signals to return. These measurements create highly detailed 3D point clouds that represent tree structures and forest environments.
This doctoral project will explore how these advanced measurements can improve forest monitoring and decision-making.
Main Research Questions
The doctoral researcher will investigate three key scientific questions:
1. How Can Laser Scanning Characterize Tree Structure?
The research will develop methods to measure important tree characteristics, including:
- Tree shape
- Branch structure
- Crown characteristics
- Stem properties
- Structural changes over time
These measurements can improve understanding of forest productivity and ecosystem development.
2. How Can Laser Scanning Time-Series Measure Tree Growth?
Multi-temporal laser scanning allows researchers to observe changes in forests over different periods.
The project will investigate how repeated scanning data can be used to estimate:
- Tree growth rates
- Structural development
- Forest dynamics
- Growth responses to environmental conditions
3. Can Tree Structure Measurements Predict Wood Quality?
The research will examine whether detailed 3D information from standing trees can be used to estimate wood quality before harvesting.
This could improve:
- Forest inventory accuracy
- Timber quality prediction
- Sustainable harvesting decisions
- Resource efficiency
Research Methods and Technologies
The project will use advanced forest measurement techniques, including:
Multi-Temporal Laser Scanning
The research will analyse repeated laser scanning observations collected from:
- Terrestrial platforms
- Mobile or kinematic systems
- Low-altitude platforms
These datasets provide detailed information about forest changes over time.
3D Point Cloud Analysis
Laser scanning produces large-scale 3D datasets that allow researchers to analyse:
- Individual trees
- Forest structures
- Growth patterns
- Spatial variation
Data Processing and Modelling
The project may involve:
- Remote sensing analysis
- Spatial data processing
- Statistical modelling
- Machine learning approaches
- Large dataset management
Why This PhD Opportunity Is Valuable
This doctoral position offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of:
- Forestry science
- Remote sensing
- Artificial intelligence
- Geospatial technology
- Sustainable forest management
The research has direct applications for organizations responsible for:
- Forest inventories
- Resource planning
- Climate adaptation
- Sustainable forestry decisions
Academic and Professional Benefits
Selected researchers will receive:
Expert Research Supervision
The doctoral candidate will work with experienced researchers specializing in forest measurement, remote sensing, and data-driven forestry.
International Doctoral Training
The DP-FOBI programme provides access to:
- Research workshops
- Summer schools
- Research visits
- International secondments
- Career development activities
Research Network Opportunities
The researcher will become part of the FOBI research community and the Vastaranta Research Syndicate, creating opportunities for collaboration with international scientists and external partners.
Salary and Funding Benefits
The position is funded through the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions COFUND programme.
The four-year employment package includes:
- Living allowance: EUR 3,200 per month
- Mobility allowance: EUR 87 per month
- Family allowance: EUR 300 per month for eligible researchers
- Paid annual leave
- Additional summer holiday bonus
Additional research support includes:
- Conference travel allowance: EUR 1,500 per year
- Secondment and research visit funding: EUR 10,500 total
- Research costs: EUR 6,000 total
- Special needs support when applicable
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must have:
Academic Qualifications
A Master’s degree or equivalent qualification in:
- Forestry
- Geography
- Geoinformatics
- Applied statistics
- Related disciplines
Applicants must not hold a doctoral degree at the application deadline.
MSCA Mobility Requirement
Candidates must satisfy the MSCA mobility rule:
- Less than 12 months of residence or employment in Finland during the previous three years before the deadline.
Required Skills and Preferred Experience
Applicants are expected to have:
- Experience with remote sensing data analysis
- Ability to process and manage large datasets
- Strong quantitative and analytical skills
- Ability to conduct independent fieldwork
- Willingness to travel for research activities
Technical skills that are considered beneficial include:
- Python programming
- R programming
- MATLAB
- Geospatial data processing
- Statistical modelling
Applicants should also demonstrate:
- Independent research ability
- Problem-solving skills
- Ability to collaborate internationally
Responsibilities of the Doctoral Researcher
The selected researcher will:
- Conduct original doctoral research
- Develop a PhD dissertation
- Complete doctoral coursework
- Participate in DP-FOBI workshops and training activities
- Create research and career development plans
- Participate in research visits and collaborations
- Publish and present scientific results
The researcher must enroll in the University of Eastern Finland Doctoral Programme in Science, Forestry and Technology. The University of Eastern Finland provides an international and multidisciplinary research environment focused on scientific innovation. The Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology conducts internationally recognized research in:
- Natural sciences
- Forestry
- Technology
International doctoral researchers benefit from:
- Modern research facilities
- Academic support services
- Healthcare access
- Affordable childcare and school services
- Professional development opportunities
Why Apply for This Forest Remote Sensing PhD Scholarship?
This PhD opportunity is ideal for graduates interested in applying advanced technology to solve modern forestry challenges.
The project combines:
- Laser scanning technology
- Forest inventory science
- Remote sensing
- Tree growth modelling
- Wood quality assessment
Researchers will gain valuable expertise in next-generation forest monitoring methods while contributing to sustainable forest management practices.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted in English through APPLY NOW. Application Deadline 10 August 2026 at 24:00 Finnish time (UTC+3) Required Application Documents; Applicants must provide:
- Certified copy of Master’s degree diploma
- Academic transcript of records
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Electronic copy of Master’s thesis
- Two-page English summary of Master’s thesis
- Ethics Self-Assessment form
- Motivation letter
- Proof of English language proficiency if required
Applicants must use official application templates. Applications that do not meet formatting and language requirements may not be considered.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is this PhD position in Finland fully funded?
Yes. The position provides a four-year employment contract with an MSCA COFUND salary package, research funding, and travel support.
2. Who can apply for this forestry PhD scholarship?
Applicants with a Master’s degree in forestry, geography, geoinformatics, applied statistics, or related fields can apply.
3. What is the main research topic?
The research focuses on using multi-temporal laser scanning data to analyse tree structure, forest growth, and wood quality.
4. What is laser scanning in forestry?
Laser scanning is a remote sensing technology that uses laser pulses to create detailed 3D measurements of forests and individual trees.
5. Are programming skills required?
Programming experience in Python, R, or MATLAB is beneficial. Experience processing remote sensing datasets is especially valuable.
6. Can international students apply?
Yes. International applicants who meet academic and MSCA mobility requirements are encouraged to apply.
7. Where is the PhD position located?
The position is based at the University of Eastern Finland’s Joensuu campus.
8. What research data will be used?
The project will use laser scanning datasets collected from terrestrial, mobile, and low-altitude platforms.
9. Is fieldwork required?
Yes. Applicants should be willing and able to participate in field research activities, including possible travel.
10. What is the application deadline?
The deadline is 10 August 2026.
Discover more from Agristok
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.