PhD Funded Position in 3D Forest Modelling and Remote Sensing at University of Helsinki, Finland

The University of Helsinki is inviting applications for a Doctoral Researcher position in 3D Forest Modelling and Remote Sensing. The position is part of the VODBIO – Vegetation Optical Depth as Biophysical Proxy: Retrieval, Validation, and Applications project and is based at the Department of Geosciences and Geography in Helsinki, Finland. This fully funded PhD opportunity is designed for researchers interested in remote sensing, forest structure, terrestrial laser scanning, ecological modelling, geospatial data science, and Earth observation.

The doctoral researcher will develop realistic three-dimensional representations of individual trees and forest stands. These digital models will support microwave electromagnetic modelling and help improve the physical interpretation of satellite-based vegetation optical depth (VOD) as an indicator of vegetation water content, biomass, and forest structure. The preferred starting date is no later than 1 November 2026, although the exact starting date is negotiable. The position is fully funded for 36 months.

About the VODBIO PhD Research Project

Vegetation Optical Depth is a satellite-observed signal that can provide information about vegetation properties. The VODBIO project aims to develop a physically based framework for interpreting VOD in relation to vegetation water content, biomass, and forest structure. The doctoral researcher will contribute to this work by creating realistic 3D representations of trees and forest stands that can be used in microwave electromagnetic modelling.

The research sits at the intersection of terrestrial laser scanning, quantitative structure modelling, forest ecology, and Earth observation. It therefore provides an opportunity to connect detailed measurements of forest structure on the ground with vegetation signals observed by satellites.

A central part of the PhD will involve converting terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) point clouds into quantitative structure models (QSMs) of individual trees and forest stands. These models will represent features such as tree architecture, biomass distribution, woody components, foliage, and water-content-related properties needed for microwave VOD modelling.

The research will use existing TLS datasets as well as new field data from contrasting ecosystems. Field activities will include work with tropical dryland vegetation in Kenya and moist tropical forests in the Amazon region.

Main Responsibilities

The successful doctoral researcher will develop and apply workflows for processing three-dimensional forest laser-scanning data and generating quantitative models of vegetation structure.

The main responsibilities will include:

• Processing 3D laser scanning data from forests.
• Creating realistic digital models of individual trees and forest stands.
• Representing tree structure, foliage, biomass, and water content within the models.
• Combining field measurements, laser scanning data, and satellite observations.
• Participating in fieldwork and ecological data collection.
• Conducting quantitative data analysis.
• Contributing to scientific papers and project meetings.
• Collaborating with research partners in Finland and internationally.

The PhD thesis will consist of three peer-reviewed scientific articles. The research will focus on generating 3D tree and forest representations for microwave remote sensing, including QSM development, synthetic forest modelling, representation of foliage and water content, and application of these products to physically based VOD interpretation.

Research Methods and Technical Skills

This PhD position is particularly suitable for candidates who want to develop advanced skills in 3D vegetation modelling and remote sensing. The work will involve processing point-cloud data, modelling forest structure, combining field observations with satellite information, and developing digital representations suitable for electromagnetic simulations.

Programming is an important component of the position. Strong programming skills in Python or R are required. Previous experience with terrestrial or airborne laser scanning, point-cloud processing, quantitative structure models, GIS, or forest inventory is considered an advantage. The position also requires good analytical skills, the ability to conduct independent scientific work, and a willingness to collaborate across different research disciplines.

Who Can Apply?

The position is suitable for candidates with a background in geography, forest sciences, ecology, environmental sciences, geoinformatics, physics, computer science, or another related discipline.

Applicants should have a strong interest in at least one or more of the following areas:

• Remote sensing
• Forest structure
• Ecological modelling
• Geospatial data science
• 3D modelling
• Earth observation
• Environmental data analysis

Strong programming ability in Python or R is a key requirement. Experience with TLS data, airborne laser scanning, point-cloud processing, QSMs, GIS, or forest inventory can strengthen an application, although these are presented as advantageous rather than mandatory qualifications.

International Fieldwork and Research Opportunities

One of the distinctive features of this doctoral position is its combination of advanced 3D modelling with field-based research. The project includes data collection from contrasting ecosystems, including tropical dryland vegetation in Kenya and moist tropical forest in the Amazon region. The researcher will also work as part of an interdisciplinary consortium involving the Finnish Meteorological Institute, Aalto University, and international collaborators.

The wider research team includes expertise in microwave remote sensing, electromagnetic modelling, terrestrial laser scanning, forest ecology, and ecosystem modelling. The doctoral researcher will collaborate with partners working on 3D electromagnetic simulations, VOD retrieval algorithms, and ecological interpretation of vegetation water and biomass dynamics. The position can therefore provide opportunities for fieldwork, research visits, conference participation, international collaboration, and co-authored scientific publications.

Research Environment and Supervision

The doctoral researcher will be based at the Department of Geosciences and Geography at the University of Helsinki. The position will be supervised by University Researcher Janne Heiskanen and Professor Eduardo Maeda.

The interdisciplinary nature of the VODBIO project means that the researcher will work across remote sensing, forest ecology, electromagnetic modelling, and ecosystem science. This environment is particularly valuable for a doctoral candidate who wants to develop a research profile connecting detailed terrestrial measurements with satellite-based observations of vegetation.

Why Pursue This PhD?

The position offers an opportunity to develop expertise in 3D vegetation modelling, field-based remote sensing, terrestrial laser scanning, and physically based interpretation of satellite observations. The research also addresses an important environmental challenge. Better measurements of vegetation water status and biomass can improve our understanding of how forests respond to drought and climate change.

By developing realistic 3D representations of trees and forest stands, the doctoral researcher will contribute to methods designed to improve the interpretation of satellite observations. The project also provides international exposure through fieldwork and collaboration with researchers in Finland and abroad. This combination of technical development, field research, Earth observation, and interdisciplinary collaboration makes the position relevant to researchers interested in both fundamental methods and applied environmental science.

Doctoral Degree Requirement

The employment contract includes a six-month probationary period. The selected candidate should either already have the right to pursue a doctoral degree at the University of Helsinki when the appointment begins or apply for doctoral study rights and obtain them during the probationary period. If the candidate does not already have doctoral study rights, the application must be submitted separately.

Salary and Funding

The position is fully funded for three years, or 36 months. The starting salary is approximately €2,700–€2,900 per month. In addition to the salary, the University of Helsinki provides occupational healthcare and other social benefits. Internationally recruited employees can also receive support with their transition to living and working in Finland. The position therefore combines three years of doctoral research funding with an international research environment and opportunities to work on advanced forest remote-sensing methods.

Life and Work in Helsinki

The University of Helsinki highlights Helsinki and Finland as offering a high quality of life, extensive public services, and a strong work-life balance. International researchers can access university support designed to help with relocation and integration into life in Finland.

Key Details of the PhD Position

Detail	Information
Position	Doctoral Researcher
Research area	3D Forest Modelling and Remote Sensing
Project	VODBIO
Project title	Vegetation Optical Depth as Biophysical Proxy: Retrieval, Validation, and Applications
University	University of Helsinki
Department	Department of Geosciences and Geography
Supervisors	Janne Heiskanen and Eduardo Maeda
Funding	Fully funded
Funding duration	36 months
Preferred start	No later than 1 November 2026
Starting salary	Approximately €2,700–€2,900/month
Main methods	TLS, QSMs, 3D modelling, remote sensing, forest modelling
Fieldwork	Kenya and Amazon region
Programming	Python or R
PhD thesis	Three peer-reviewed scientific articles
Application language	English
Application deadline	31 August 2026
Deadline time	23:59 EEST (UTC+3)

Application Deadline

The application deadline is 31 August 2026 at 23:59 EEST (UTC+3). Applications must be submitted through the University of Helsinki recruitment system. Candidates should prepare their application materials early because the position requires both a CV highlighting relevant experience and a detailed motivation letter.

Application Documents

Applicants should submit the following documents:

1. Curriculum Vitae

Submit a freeform CV highlighting previous experience relevant to the doctoral position. The CV should make it easy for the selection committee to identify experience related to remote sensing, programming, forest ecology, GIS, point-cloud processing, 3D modelling, quantitative analysis, or other relevant areas.

2. Motivation Letter

Submit a motivation letter of no more than two pages explaining why you want to pursue doctoral studies and why this research position is a good fit for your academic and research interests. A strong application should clearly connect the candidate’s previous experience with the research objectives of the VODBIO project.

How to Apply

Applications should be submitted through APPLY NOW system before 31 August 2026 at 23:59 EEST (UTC+3).

For questions about the position and research group, applicants can contact:

Janne Heiskanen
University Researcher
janne.heiskanen@helsinki.fi

Eduardo Maeda
Professor
eduardo.maeda@helsinki.fi

Technical questions concerning the recruitment system can be directed to: recruitment@helsinki.fi

The University of Helsinki also emphasizes its commitment to a diverse and equitable study and work culture and encourages qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.

APPLY NOW

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this PhD position about?

The doctoral project focuses on 3D forest modelling and remote sensing. The researcher will create realistic digital representations of trees and forest stands from terrestrial laser scanning data for microwave electromagnetic modelling and physically based interpretation of vegetation optical depth.

What is the VODBIO project?

VODBIO stands for Vegetation Optical Depth as Biophysical Proxy: Retrieval, Validation, and Applications. The project develops a physically based framework for interpreting satellite microwave vegetation optical depth as an indicator of vegetation water content, biomass, and forest structure.

Is this a fully funded PhD?

Yes. The position is fully funded for 36 months, or three years.

What is the PhD salary?

The advertised starting salary is approximately €2,700–€2,900 per month.

When does the position start?

The starting date is negotiable, but the preferred starting date is no later than 1 November 2026.

What programming skills are required?

Strong programming skills are required, for example in Python or R.

Do I need previous laser-scanning experience?

Experience with point-cloud processing, terrestrial or airborne laser scanning, quantitative structure models, GIS, or forest inventory is considered an advantage. The source does not state that all of these experiences are mandatory.

Where will the fieldwork take place?

The project includes field data collection from contrasting ecosystems, including tropical dryland vegetation in Kenya and moist tropical forest in the Amazon region.

How many research papers will the PhD thesis include?

The doctoral thesis is expected to consist of three peer-reviewed scientific articles.

Where is the position based?

The position is based at the Department of Geosciences and Geography at the University of Helsinki.

Who will supervise the PhD?

The doctoral researcher will be supervised by University Researcher Janne Heiskanen and Professor Eduardo Maeda.

What is the application deadline?

The deadline is 31 August 2026 at 23:59 EEST (UTC+3).

What documents are required?

Applicants should submit a freeform CV highlighting relevant experience and a motivation letter of no more than two pages explaining their motivation for pursuing doctoral studies.