High Resolution Image Processing Expert

VITO develops technology that supports the transition towards a more sustainable society and economy. Within this mission, remote sensing is one of our key enabling technologies. By combining Earth observation data from satellites and drones with artificial intelligence, we create practical, science-based solutions for a wide range of application domains.

The Remote Sensing team within VITO Environmental Intelligence now brings together more than 150 motivated colleagues. To help realize our ambitions for resilient ecosystems, a healthy environment and a regenerative economy, we are looking for a High Resolution image processing expert to join the team that develops agriculture applications.

As part of the remote sensing based Agriculture research team, you will contribute to projects in the agri-food sector and to research assignments for industry or institutional clients such as the European Commission or the Flemish government.

Our work is largely project-based and is often funded through successful proposals in response to tenders. This gives us the opportunity to carry out applied research, build new capabilities in high-resolution image processing, and translate these capabilities into meaningful agriculture applications. Examples include WatchITgrow, our satellite-based platform for farmers, and MapEO, our processing pipeline for UAV imagery. MapEO also supports direct requests from seed breeders, agri-industry partners and other users who need reliable, high-resolution insights.

In this role, you will apply remote sensing data science and coding in an operational research context. While the focus is on thematic expertise, a good understanding of deep learning and foundation models would be a strong asset, especially for working effectively with our IT developers. Your work will combine scientific research with operational activities, helping to bridge the gap between innovative methods and robust, real-world applications.

You will work with a high degree of independence, while being closely supported by internal colleagues and external project partners. At VITO, you will become part of a multidisciplinary environment of researchers, developers, operators and business developers. More specifically, you will join a warm and collaborative Agriculture team: a close-knit group of researchers who value cooperation, trust, curiosity and a professional working atmosphere. We believe that high-quality work goes hand in hand with mutual support, open communication and a healthy work-life balance. You will also interact with clients and partners in an international setting, which may involve occasional travel.

• A Master’s or PhD degree in bioscience engineering, environmental sciences, engineering science or a related field

• Expertise in remote sensing data processing, geographic information systems, statistics and big data analysis

• Solid experience with Python programming

• Experience in applying machine learning techniques, including computer vision, to remote sensing data is a strong asset

• Experience with UAV operations and data analytics is an asset

• Excellent writing and presentation skills in English

• A thematic background in agriculture or environmental sciences

Offer

• We operate in an activity‑based way, meaning your work activities guide where you work. Our headquarter is located in Mol, and we anticipate an average onsite presence of about 50%. We also support flexibility: parttime remote work or working from one of our satellite offices in Antwerp‑Berchem, Genk, Ghent, Leuven, Kortrijk or Ostend is possible.

• A competitive salary with a range of benefits, including allowances, insurance, and a modular package of holidays.

• Innovation is our asset, so it goes without saying that we give our employees the opportunity to take additional training courses and stay up-to-date in their field. You will always have the opportunity to broaden your knowledge and discover new technologies.

• You will have the opportunity to be part of an organization with an international reputation, known for its cutting-edge technological research and scientific consultancy.

• With us, you will contribute directly to sustainable developments at a local, national and global level through your innovative applications. You provide answers to contemporary societal challenges.

• Moreover, we highly value a good work-life balance at VITO! This is achieved by adopting a flexible attitude depending on your specific needs.