Postdoctoral Research Fellow – Weather Prediction Models

About the role

Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) is offering a postdoctoral research fellowship through its CRSACenter, on the project "Crop Growth Monitoring and Yield Forecasting". The fellowship focuses on developing and testing statistical models for accurate forecasting of precipitation and temperature over Morocco, using crop growth models, remote sensing data, data assimilation, machine learning and seasonal weather forecasts. The fellowship is based in the Green City of Benguerir.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the development of advanced statistical models and machine learning algorithms for forecasting precipitation and temperature in Morocco, including data analysis, model design and algorithm implementation.
• Integrate historical weather data, remote sensing data and crop growth data into the modeling framework, ensuring data quality, consistency and compatibility.
• Test and validate the models rigorously, comparing forecasts with actual weather conditions and refining them based on results.
• Collaborate with researchers, data scientists, agronomists and remote sensing experts to fit the models into the broader project.
• Document methodologies, code and results, and help prepare research papers, reports and presentations.

Required profile

• Ph.D. in a relevant field such as machine learning, climate science, environmental sciences, geoinformatics or a related discipline.
• Professional experience applying machine learning algorithms to map and correct spatial data.
• Experience in data analysis, preprocessing, manipulation and cleaning.
• Track record of independent research and publications.
• Familiarity with climate data, remote sensing and crop modeling is a plus.

Required skills

• Proficiency in advanced learning techniques and statistical modeling.
• Strong programming skills in Python or R.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills for interdisciplinary research.

To apply, candidates submit a cover letter, CV, research statement and contact details for three references; the cover letter should explain how their skills match the position and project goals.