Luke is recruiting a Research Scientist (doctoral researcher) to contribute to the development of remote sensing-based tools and methodologies for assessing the seasonal trafficability of forest soils and gravel roads.
Finland has one of the densest forest road networks in Europe, with approximately 160,000 km of forest roads (6–16.5 m/ha), constructed to serve the transportation needs of the forest industry, forest management, and other users such as recreational visitors and emergency services. Forest management and harvesting operations are also significantly affected by changing weather conditions outside the road network. Currently, reliable and high-quality information is lacking for most of these areas and roads.
Terrain trafficability is strongly influenced by seasonal variations and conditions, which can fluctuate considerably from year to year, posing challenges for forestry operations.
Soils with high moisture content—such as peatlands and fine-textured soils—have a high risk of failure and are particularly vulnerable to soil damage.
The aim of the SoilSeason project is to develop a concept for collecting essential information on the load-bearing capacity of selected forest sites, forest road sections, and their associated characteristics. In this project, bottlenecks will be identified using both existing and newly collected field data. Additionally, the project will utilize various airborne datasets, including Airborne Laser Scanning (ALS) data, drone-based gamma-ray maps, the Topographic Wetness Index (TWI) layer, and the Harvest Season Map Service data.The integration of these data sources will support the development of predictive models. We expect that terrain and road trafficability can be effectively characterized, and that dynamic models can be created to support decision-making in forestry operations.
Our main research questions are as follows:
Q1: What is the potential of remote sensing data in characterizing soil stiffness, soil types, and structures in forest terrain and forest roads?
Q2: How can physical climate models be calibrated to accurately predict the influence of weather variability and site-specific factors on road trafficability?
Q3: How can the trafficability of forest soils and roads be effectively characterized, and how can dynamic models be developed to support decision-making in forestry operations?
The doctoral researcher will work on the SoilSeason project, funded by the Research Council of Finland (2025–2029), in collaboration with the University of Eastern Finland. The position is for three years, with the possibility of a one-year extension based on the candidate’s performance.
Luke is recruiting a Research Scientist (doctoral researcher) to contribute to the development of remote sensing-based tools and methodologies for assessing the seasonal trafficability of forest soils and gravel roads.
Finland has one of the densest forest road networks in Europe, with approximately 160,000 km of forest roads (6–16.
Terrain trafficability is strongly influenced by seasonal variations and conditions, which can fluctuate considerably from year to year, posing challenges for forestry operations.
Soils with high moisture content—such as peatlands and fine-textured soils—have a high risk of failure and are particularly vulnerable to soil damage.
The aim of the SoilSeason project is to develop a concept for collecting essential information on the load-bearing capacity of selected forest sites, forest road sections, and their associated characteristics. In this project, bottlenecks will be identified using both existing and newly collected field data. Additionally, the project will utilize various airborne datasets, including Airborne Laser Scanning (ALS) data, drone-based gamma-ray maps, the Topographic Wetness Index (TWI) layer, and the Harvest Season Map Service data.The integration of these data sources will support the development of predictive models. We expect that terrain and road trafficability can be effectively characterized, and that dynamic models can be created to support decision-making in forestry operations.
Our main research questions are as follows:
Q1: What is the potential of remote sensing data in characterizing soil stiffness, soil types, and structures in forest terrain and forest roads?
Q2: How can physical climate models be calibrated to accurately predict the influence of weather variability and site-specific factors on road trafficability?
Q3: How can the trafficability of forest soils and roads be effectively characterized, and how can dynamic models be developed to support decision-making in forestry operations?
The doctoral researcher will work on the SoilSeason project, funded by the Research Council of Finland (2025–2029), in collaboration with the University of Eastern Finland. The position is for three years, with the possibility of a one-year extension based on the candidate’s performance.
-A relevant Master’s degree in a suitable field (e.g., forestry, physical geography, environmental science, engineering, machine learning, or a related discipline)
-A solid background in remote sensing, with strong computer and software skills (e.g., R, Python, ArcGIS)
-Proficiency in applying statistical methods and handling large datasets
-Fluency in English, both spoken and written
-Prior experience in publishing scientific articles in forestry or remote sensing is considered an asset, but not required, as we are seeking an early-career researcher
Applicants should submit the following documents as part of their application:
-A CV
-A motivation letter outlining their interest and suitability for the position
-A list of publications (optional)
-Contact details of two individuals who can provide references
The person selected for the position might need to undergo standard security clearance vetting with the applicant’s consent (Security Clearance Act 726/2014). More detailed information on the procedure and the subject's rights is available at www.supo.fi.
Parvez Rana
Senior scientist
+358 50 325 4773
parvez.rana@luke.fi
Anne Ojala
Group Manager
+358 50 350 3568
anne.ojala@luke.fi
Primarily, we request applicants to submit their applications electronically via the Valtiolle.fi service. However, you can also apply for this job by delivering your application to the Registry Office’s postal address. Both the application and the envelope must feature the ID number of the position applied for. The letter must be delivered by the end of the application period.
The Registry of Natural Resources Institute Finland
Latokartanonkaari 9
00790 Helsinki, Finland
Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) is a research and expert organisation that builds sustainable future and well-being from renewable natural resources. Through research, we create value and solutions for our customers and society by solving local and global challenges.
Being open-minded, curious, and having a strong will to make a positive impact in the world bind Luke people together. We value our diverse working community consisting of people with different backgrounds and cultures and promote equality. Sustainability is included in all our operations.
Location
Latokartanonkaari 9, 00790 Helsinki
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Latokartanonkaari 9
00790 Helsinki
Other information of the position
