Deadline: 06/01/2025
The ESA Φ-lab CIN is now opening applications for a Visiting Researcher in Satellite Meteorological Image processing. Find out more and apply now.
Purpose and Scope of Work
The visiting researcher will have the opportunity to contribute to the exploration of innovative
machine-learning and image processing methods, aiming to fully harness and extend the end- user benefits of an operational microwave mission set to fly on board MetOp-SG, the next
generation of European meteorological polar satellites. While technological improvements with microwave sensors significantly reduced random noise, their short-term gain stability can still remain a challenge. The associated noise would be time-correlated and cause spatial striping in satellite images, which may emerge from the overall reduced white noise.
The stripes, like any spatially correlated noise, risk to be mis-interpreted as geophysical structures in downstream applications and hence be detrimental to e.g., operational weather forecasting, snow-fall climatology... It is therefore crucial to at least identify the strongest stripe occurrences for quality flagging and ideally correct or mitigate them. Though striping or ringing correction solutions have been elaborated in a number of fields relying on 2D or 3D imagery, no such algorithms have been integrated in the context of operational satellite applications, and with microwave imagery.
This visiting researcher opportunity is for experts in image processing, computer vision and machine learning, who can provide high-impact via short-term engagement, contribute with their profound knowledge and innovative approaches to the ongoing and future projects of the ESA Φ-lab, in the field of Earth Observation, with a direct operational aim.
The visiting researcher will work in coordination with ESA Φ-lab and Mission Science experts. The Visiting Researcher position will be hosted at the ESA Φ-lab at ESRIN (IT).
The reference target starting date for this project and associated visiting period is 15/02/2025. The maximum duration of the visiting period is 3 months, with the possibility to extend the collaboration remotely afterwards. Postponements are acceptable if necessary.
Expected results
- Example of activities and expected results:
- Perform joint research on the topic described in Purpose and Scope of Work;
- Deliver proof of concepts, in the form of prototype algorithms for sensor denoising and datasets;
- Scientific publications in top-tier journals and conferences.
Qualifications
- Proven expertise and hands-on skills in one or more of the specified technology areas, especially multispectral image processing, computer vision, machine learning;
- Knowledge of Earth Observation is appreciated but not required. Track record of high- impact scientific papers on related topics is an asset;
- Demonstrated ability to translate complex technical concepts into practical applications; Candidates can come from Academia: Master student -the visit could be the subject of the Master thesis-, or PhD or Post-Doc in a relevant field;
- Industry, or any other research institution or space agency.
Selection Criteria:
- Technical expertise and experience;
- Alignment with ESA Φ-lab’s strategic objectives and mission goals;
- Availability and flexibility for short-term engagements;
- Fit with the specific ESA Φ-lab culture and modus operandi.
Why apply?
This call represents a unique opportunity to contribute to ESA Φ-lab and, more broadly, to ESA’s pioneering projects, influencing the future of space applications. We look forward to welcoming an esteemed visiting researcher who is eager to collaborate on transformative space initiatives.
How to apply? Interested candidates are invited to submit their applications, including a detailed CV and any supporting documents or references in the form below.
Legal Framework for engagement
- Under the Φ-lab Visiting Researcher Framework
- ESA will send you an invitation letter (see template below)
Φ-lab Visiting Researcher Framework The Φ-lab Visiting Researcher Framework is an unpaid collaboration performed at ESA Φ-lab with the goal of jointly advancing on a specific research proposal of shared interest by merging our competence, time and resources within an ESA Φ-lab team.
Through our highly selective process, we are looking for talented researchers or innovators from industry or academia with excellent skills, creativity, and a passion for pushing research boundaries. As a visiting researcher you will come onsite at the ESA Φ-lab for a certain period to mingle with researchers, support and enhance ESA Φ-lab 's research and innovation projects, and promote research results in the community (e.g., through seminars, workshops, and publications).