Data Scientist

Introduction
Are you a passionate Data Scientist with a knack for machine learning, particularly in the realm of computer vision and deep learning? Do you want to use your skills for research on nature and the environment? If so, we have the perfect role for you at the Norwegian Institute for Nature Research (NINA)!

About NINA
NINA is Norway’s leading institute for applied ecological research, with broad-based expertise on the genetic, population, species, ecosystem and landscape level, in terrestrial, freshwater and coastal marine environments, and today has more than 340 employees. The headquarters are in Trondheim, with offices in Tromsø, Lillehammer, Bergen and Oslo.

NINA's activities include both research and investigation, environmental monitoring, consultancy and evaluation. NINA’s scientists come from a wide range of disciplinary backgrounds that include biologists, geographers, geneticists, social scientists, sociologists and more.

NINA continuously strengthens its contribution towards sustainable development, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals, by delivering relevant and research-based knowledge on biodiversity, climate change and society.

About the department
The position will be at the environmental data team, which currently has 11 employees dedicated to supporting our researchers in data science and data management. We specialize in developing innovative solutions for collecting, analysing, processing, and presenting data to support our researchers using cutting-edge technology. The environmental data team is located at the headquarters in Trondheim, but working place for this position will be at NINA’s office in Oslo. NINA Oslo is a research department of about 60 employees, focusing on research, mapping and taxonomy, consulting, spatial analysis and monitoring of nature - nationally and internationally. An important part of the position will be to act as an interface between the Geodata team in Oslo and the Environmental Data team in Trondheim with on-the-ground understanding of data types and researchers needs. We are looking for someone who is dedicated to making the world a better place. They should be passionate about data, enjoy problem-solving, and have a genuine desire to help others. In return, you will work with enthusiastic teams committed to using technology to improve the world for both people and nature.

What You'll Do
1. Computer Vision and Model Development: Development and integration of deep learning models to analyse remote sensing imagery and streamline workflows.
2. Research-Driven Collaboration: Set up work environments, collect and translate data, and participate in writing innovative research proposals. Collaborate in developing our AI strategy, crafting new methodologies, and contributing to impactful, peer-reviewed publications.
3. Environmental Data-related tasks: Work closely with our team to develop software that processes environmental data and guides the application of AI across diverse projects.

Read this article as an example of topics you will work on at NINA: Documenting nature loss with eyes from the sky and Ai.

Your Skills & Qualifications:
• A Master's degree in Computer Science, Data Science (with remote sensing experience preferred), or a related field.
• Proficiency in deep learning, integration, training, and fine-tuning models.
• Familiarity with Linux systems and strong Python coding skills (PyTorch, TensorFlow, Keras, Scikit-learn).
• Proven expertise in computer vision, particularly for earth observation.
• Experience in software development best practices like git, documentation, testing, and Docker.
• Ability to juggle multiple projects across domains and communicate effectively in English.

Preferred Skills:
• Experience with ML applications to multimodal remote sensing data (e.g., Landsat, Sentinel-1/2, PlanetScope, LiDAR).
• Familiarity with image annotation for ecological and environmental science.
• A solid publication record in reputable peer-reviewed journals.
• An interest in natural sciences such as ecology, botany, or zoology.

NINA offers:
• A workplace in one of Europe's foremost environmental institutes.
• Salary by qualifications.
• Flexi-time scheme.
• Good pension scheme and group life insurance.
• A pleasant working environment in modern premises of high standard.

The application must include a CV with information about education and relevant work experience.

Applicants who are short-listed for the position will be invited for an interview.

For NINA, a good working environment is characterized by diversity. We encourage qualified candidates to apply regardless of gender, functional ability, cultural background or if you have been out of work for a period. If necessary, the workplace will be adapted for people with disabilities.
NINA's everyday language is Norwegian, and language training is provided.

Questions related to the position should be directed to section leader Roald Vang, phone +47 911 38 256, or leader of the Geodata team Megan Nowell, phone +47 455 05 995.

Application deadline: As soon as possible. Suitable candidates will be contacted continuously.