Research Engineer – Platform for satellite-based surface models

Tasks

We are looking for a technical research engineer who wants to contribute to a Proof-of-Concept project funded by Digital Futures and located at KTH's Department of Geoinformatics.

The project is based on research showing that digital surface models (DSM) with LiDAR quality can be generated from a single optical satellite image using a deep learning model. The goal is to take the research from prototype to a cloud-based DEM/DSM platform, tested together with real stakeholders.

You will be the central engineering resource in the project and work directly with the project's Principal Investigator and a small research team to transform a validated research method (TRL 6–7) into a functioning platform ready for the first users.

As a successful candidate, you will:

Design and build the cloud-based DSM/DEM process platform, from the ingestion of a single optical satellite image to the delivery of a high-resolution DSM Integrate and deploy the existing deep learning model for DSM generation into a production-ready pipeline Develop the infrastructure required to serve the first pilot areas selected by the project's stakeholders Build demo/prototype tools to demonstrate the platform's accuracy and usability to stakeholders Support data quality, comparison against reference sources (e.g., Copernicus DSM, LiDAR DSM), as well as documentation Collect and integrate user feedback to further develop the platform towards an MVP Work closely with the research team at KTH Geoinformatics

Qualifications

Requirements

A completed bachelor's or master's degree (university education) in the subject of the employment or equivalent competence. Documented experience in programming (e.g., Python or similar). Experience in building or deploying data pipelines, APIs, and cloud-based systems. Interest in or background in geospatial data, remote sensing, or Earth Observation. Ability to work independently and take responsibility for technical deliveries. Good communication skills in English, as it is required in daily work.

Meritorious

Experience with deep learning frameworks and deployment of ML models in production. Knowledge of cloud environments and container-based applications. Experience handling large and heterogeneous geospatial datasets (satellite images, DEM/DSM). Background in photogrammetry, Computer Vision, or geoinformatics. Experience with ESA data and cloud infrastructure. Awareness of diversity and equal treatment issues with a particular focus on gender equality.

We will place great emphasis on personal qualities.

Join KTH

KTH shapes the future through education, research, and innovation. As a leading international technical university, we play an active role in driving and contributing to the transition to a sustainable society. Here, you are offered the opportunity to grow and develop in a creative and dynamic workplace with good working conditions and benefits. Equality, diversity, and equal opportunities are a matter of quality and an inherent part of KTH's values as a university and a government agency.

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work and develop at KTH.

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Application

You apply via KTH's recruitment system. As an applicant, you are responsible for ensuring that your application is complete when submitted.

The application must reach KTH no later than the last application date at midnight, CET/CEST (Central European Time/Central European Summer Time).

About the employment

The employment is for a fixed term according to agreement - for up to 6 months, with commencement as agreed.

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