Who is Saint Louis University? Founded in 1818, Saint Louis University is one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious Catholic universities. SLU, which also has a campus in Madrid, Spain, is recognized for world-class academics, life-changing research, compassionate health care, and a strong commitment to faith and service.
JOB SUMMARY
The Geospatial Research Scientist or Senior Geospatial Research Scientist leads innovative research initiatives in geospatial science, remote sensing, and GeoAI, applying advanced analytics, machine learning, and image processing techniques to address complex challenges in areas such as greenhouse gas emissions, environmental monitoring, and precision agriculture. This position is responsible for developing research concepts, designing and executing experiments, analyzing and integrating multi-source geospatial data, and disseminating findings through publications, presentations, and sponsored research proposals. The Geospatial Research Scientist or Senior Geospatial Research Scientist collaborates with interdisciplinary teams, contributes to strategic partnerships and funding development, and supports the advancement of cutting-edge research within Saint Louis University s Remote Sensing Lab.
PRIMARY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
Identify compelling scientific questions, design experiments, and conduct ground-breaking research
Participate in securing external funding by developing grant proposals
Liaison to coordinate projects and support interdisciplinary collaboration
Drafting peer-reviewed publications and project reports
Process and analyze drone and satellite data (e.g., WorldView, Planet, SAR)
Participate in field surveys, deploying calibration sites
Performs other duties as assigned
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Strong foundational knowledge in remote sensing, image processing, and geospatial data collection and analysis
Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR)
Verbal and written communication skills, including presentations
Strong interpersonal skills, including teamwork and collaboration
Supervisory skills
Ability to integrate interdisciplinary research concepts
Demonstrated ability to collaborate, lead projects, and oversee and guide team members
Proven ability to identify and pursue funding opportunities, developing proposals to secure grants from both academic and industry sources
Expertise in integrating interdisciplinary research concepts to create innovative research applications
Adaptability to work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment, identifying areas for improvement and collaborating with team members to address gaps
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS FOR GEOSPATIAL RESEARCH SCIENTIST
Master’s degree in geospatial science, geography, earth science, or closely related fields such as computer engineering, electronic engineering, computer science, or technology
Three years of related work experience
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS FOR GEOSPATIAL RESEARCH SCIENTIST
Ph.D. in geospatial science, geography or environmental science with geospatial concentration, computer engineering, electronic engineering, geospatial science, earth science or computer science and technology
Strong programming, signal processing, cloud computing, and data analytical skills
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS FOR SENIOR GEOSPATIAL RESEARCH SCIENTIST
Master’s degree in geospatial science, geography, earth science, or closely related fields such as computer engineering, electronic engineering, computer science, or technology
Five years of related work experience
Project management experience and external engagement
Demonstrated experience in building collaborations, leading projects, and overseeing, and guiding team members
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS FOR SENIOR GEOSPATIAL RESEARCH SCIENTIST
PhD in geospatial science, geoinformatics, geography, computer science, remote sensing, or related areas with strong geospatial skills
Record of scholarly research and publications
Appointment level will be commensurate with the selected candidate s qualifications and experience. Candidates meeting the qualifications for Senior Geospatial Research Scientist may be appointed at the senior level based on demonstrated research leadership, project management experience, scholarly achievements, and ability to support the growth and strategic objectives of the Remote Sensing Lab.
ABOUT THE REMOTE SENSING LAB (RSL)
The Remote Sensing Lab advances geospatial science through machine learning and AI-driven analysis of multi-scale remote sensing data to tackle pressing challenges in food and water security, environmental change, and socio-ecological resilience. Its research combines geospatial computer vision, digital twins and photogrammetry, and sensor fusion—integrating satellite, UAV, and field-based hyperspectral, multispectral, thermal, and LiDAR measurements to monitor agriculture, ecosystems, and land-use dynamics. Active projects span quantum farming and precision agriculture, remote sensing based nitrogen prescriptions to boost crop productivity, early detection of plant diseases, identification of biological and chemical stressors, carbon accounting, permafrost material chemistry, and development of a global InSAR accuracy model. Supported by high-performance computing and advanced imaging systems, the lab delivers innovative GeoAI solutions that drive sustainable agriculture, strengthen food security, and deepen understanding of land-water-climate interactions.
Function
Research Support
Scheduled Weekly Hours:
40
Saint Louis University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for the position applied for without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, military/veteran status, gender identity, or other non-merit factors. If accommodations are needed for completing the application and/or with the interviewing process, please contact Human Resources at 314-977-5847.