To develop approaches for remote sensing of agricultural grassland using technologies such as optical and microwave satellite data, drone imaging and terrestrial photography and assist in the evaluation of these technologies in modelling grazed grassland using machine learning methods (such as ANN and SVM).

Parameters such as herbage mass, sward composition, pasture quality and pasture density are of particular interest.

The successful candidate will be involved in experimental design, and will undertake associated field measurements to develop ground truth data, satellite image processing and data handling, and collating and analysing the data.

They will work in collaboration with a number of Teagasc colleagues and partners in the VistaMilk project, including the machine learning teams at DCU and UCD to develop and validate the prediction equations.

They will also work with the PastureBase Ireland Team to examine to potential for data captured through image analyses to feed directly into PastureBase Ireland.

Essential Qualifications

- PhD in grassland and/or remote sensing

- Relevant research experience not to exceed 3 years’ post-PhD

Desirable Qualifications

- Experience in image analyses

- Experience in setting own research agenda

A more detailed job description can be accessed on https://www.teagasc.ie/about/opportunities/current-vacancies/.

Applications should be made on-line through https://www.teagasc.ie/careers.

The completed application documents must be forwarded so as to reach the Public Appointments Service no later than 12:00 noon, Friday, 16th April 2021.