Research Engineer in Global River Hydrology Using SWOT Mission

Support the SWOT satellite mission’s hydrology science by improving data products, advancing research, and assisting global users.

Best for:Best for engineers with a strong background in satellite data processing, Python, and hydrological modeling seeking to contribute to global environmental science.

INRAE · Montpellier, France · R2 · Recognised researcher

More professors at INRAE

Global river hydrologySWOT satellite missionData processing and analysisHydrological modelingClimate teleconnectionsAnthropogenic impacts on rivers

This is a research staff position — not a PhD studentship.

Deadline

—

Funding

Salaried

€2.8k–€3.2k/mo

Start date

2027-01-01

Temporary

Location

Montpellier

France

Overview

This position at INRAE (France) offers a temporary research engineering role focused on advancing global river hydrology through the Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT) satellite mission. The successful candidate will collaborate with international teams to refine SWOT hydrology products, conduct large-scale data analysis, and support scientific studies on river dynamics, climate impacts, and anthropogenic changes. The role involves algorithmic workflow development, technical support for data users, and logistical coordination of SWOT science team meetings. Based in Montpellier, the position is ideal for engineers with expertise in satellite data processing, Python programming, and high-performance computing.

SWOT satelliteHydrologyRemote sensingData processingPython programmingHigh-performance computingEnvironmental scienceRiver dynamics

What you'll do

Develop and implement algorithmic workflows for processing large-scale hydrological datasets from the SWOT mission.
Assess and improve SWOT hydrology products through filtering, data densification, and validation techniques.
Conduct global and regional-scale studies on river seasonality, hydrological dynamics, and anthropogenic impacts using SWOT data.
Provide technical support to SWOT science teams and data users, including data access assistance and script development.
Organize logistical aspects of SWOT Science Team meetings, particularly those hosted in France.
Prepare technical summaries, reports, and scientific materials for publication and presentations.

Requirements

Degree required: Master's or PhD degree in environmental sciences, hydrology, remote sensing, or a related field with expertise in satellite data processing and software development.

Language: English; proficiency required for written and spoken communication.

Instruction: English

Required skills

Strong expertise in scientific data processing, particularly with satellite data.
Proficiency in Python programming for data analysis and algorithm development.
Experience handling large datasets and using high-performance computing environments.
Familiarity with scientific data formats (NetCDF, GeoPackage, shapefile, raster, CSV, spatial databases).
Knowledge of hydrology, river hydraulics, or remote sensing of continental waters.

Nice to have

Experience with parallel or distributed computing frameworks.Background in environmental sciences or related disciplines.Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an international team.

Eligibility

No specific nationality or residency restrictions mentioned.
Open to candidates with relevant Master’s or PhD degrees.

Funding & terms

Type

Salaried

Amount

€2.8k–€3.2k/mo

Duration

12 months

Programme

INRAE

How to apply

Deadline: 2026-11-05

Applicants must submit their CV and a motivation letter via email to hind.oubanas@inrae.fr. Ensure your application includes detailed information about your relevant skills and experience in satellite data processing and hydrology.

Documents required