Position Purpose:
Applications for a research associate opening are invited for a European funded research project that explores digital innovations for smallholder farm production. The research associate will working along an expert faculty, PhD student and postdoctoral researcher to help answer questions on:
• The use of ICT-driven technologies for demand-based irrigation systems, and how data and information need to be disseminated and aggregated to promote equity. • Critical evaluation of remote sensing-based vegetation status products at different resolutions, in order to support the timely decision-making process of smallholder farmers. • How to translate data products for smallholder farmers with available digital tools, what kind of digital tools are operational or under development by solution providers and what tools and information are needed?
This is a full-time position for 12 months with a 3-month probationary period. The position is available from December 1st, 2025, and extendable for up to 36 months based on performance. External support for this position comes from a 3-year project funded by the German Federal Office for Agriculture and Food (BLE). Selected applicants will receive all necessary privileges, such as access to the library, sports facilities, laboratories, IT resources, dedicated office space, and subscription to the university mailing lists.
Main Responsibilities:
Lead technical activities related to project outcomes related to:
· Performing field measurements and executing surveys with farmers, complemented with remote-sensing-based analyses of water productivity and vegetation indices.
· Technology assessment of existing products and services.
Project team will consist of an expert faculty, postdoctoral researcher, research assistant and PhD student at LUMS. Opportunities for travel and exchanges with international partners (University of Hildesheim and Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development) are also likely.
MS or PhD in Engineering, Computer Science, Environmental Sciences, Water Resources, Agriculture or a related discipline is essential. BS in Electrical, Computer, Mechatronics or Systems Engineering will be preferred.
Experience:
3+ years of post-MS experience in industry or academia in water resources, agriculture, environment or meteorology related issues is essential. Experience of international collaborations and/or Industry experience in ICT-related sectors are a plus.
Knowledge:
Geo-spatial inference & machine learning, Development of technology platforms, and Agri-Business development are essential. Candidates with additional knowledge on precision agriculture, Water resources, agronomy will be preferred.
Skills and Attributes:
Necessary
· Programming proficiency (MATLAB, Python..)
· GIS tools and data analytics
· Meeting deadlines
· Good communication skills
· Writing and reporting
· Ability to understand and appreciate end-user / stakeholder perspective.
· Academic research and publications.
Desirable
· Desire to learn new domains of knowledge, and enjoy interdisciplinary work.
· Women and international applicants are specially encouraged to apply.
Additional Information
Travel: Frequent travel to rural sites in Central and Southern Punjab for data collection or other program activities.
Work Schedule: Standard 40 Hours per week
Work Environment: Desk and field work, with frequent interactions & meetings with project partners, industry and government organizations.
Interested candidates must email their applications to hrwit@lums.edu.pk with a copy of their CV, academic transcripts, publications and a list of references. Use the subject line ‘Application for RA – SMALLPAK’.
Selection Process: Consideration and selection of the candidates will be on a rolling basis until the position is filled. The candidate can join at their earliest convenience. For any informal queries or clarifications please email us at abubakr@lums.edu.pk.