Postdoctoral Researcher: Training AI in Soil Science in Halle

Postdoctoral Researcher: Training AI in Soil Science

Employer

Helmholtz-Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ

The Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ) is a world-leading institution in environmental research and a member of the Helmholtz Association, Germany’s largest scientific organisation. With approximately 1,200 employees across Leipzig, Halle, and Magdeburg, we have been conducting research since 1991 using a transdisciplinary approach to address the most pressing challenges of our time: biodiversity loss, climate change, and environmental pollution. Our goal is to translate excellent research into practical solutions for policymakers, business, and society, and to serve as a reliable partner in supporting transformation processes toward a sustainable and just future for current and future generations. We foster a culture of collaboration, openness, and diversity within a work environment that actively promotes creativity and personal development.

• Biogeosciences (BG)
• Hydrological Sciences (HS)
• Soil System Sciences (SSS)

Type

Full time

Level

Entry level

62500 - 89500 € / Year, TV-B E13 gross wages; remuneration depends on previous work experience

Preferred education

PhD

19 October 2026

Posted

14 September 2026

We are seeking a scientist (f/m/x) to curate a comprehensive collection of annotated X-ray CT images for deep-learning-based segmentation of soil microstructure within a DFG-funded project. The project aims to bring together a network of experts to jointly build a large dataset of annotated soil microstructure for training AI-based segmentation models and to publish the datasets and models according to FAIR and CARE principles. The scientist will be supported by the Research Data Management team of the UFZ.

• Plan, organize, and conduct workshops for need analysis, tutoring image annotations and tutoring semantic image segmentation
• Communication with data owners
• Soil sampling and annotation of underrepresented soils
• Development of learning material and documentation
• Quality control of training data and segmentation model results
• Publish data and models in online repositories by FAIR & CARE principles together with the RDM team
• Publish and present project results in scientific journals, at project meetings and conferences
• Provide scientific guidance and support to interns, PhD students, research assistants, and other staff members

We offer

• The freedom to master even the most demanding challenges between basic research and practical application
• The chance to work in interdisciplinary, international teams and benefit from a variety of perspectives
• First-class integration into national and international research networks to work together on global challenges
• Excellent research infrastructure and research data management to optimally support your work
• Flexible working hours and a wide range of options for balancing work and care responsibilities through our family office
• Competent support and advice for international colleagues arriving at the UFZ from the 'International Office'
• Special annual payment, capital-forming benefits and subsidised Germany Job Ticket
• A workplace in a vibrant region with a high life quality and social and cultural diversity

Your profile

• University degree in environmental science, agriculture, image processing or related subjects
• Sound knowledge of soil science
• Knowledge and experience in the interpretation of scientific results
• Experience with X-ray CT and image processing
• Proficiency in Python Coding
• Excellent oral and written communication skills (German and English)
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team