Postdoctoral Researcher in Data Science and Predictive Modeling for Potato Cultivation Systems

Nyon | 80-80%

Your contribution

• Development of machine learning models and statistical models to predict the risk of virus infection in Swiss seed potato production, as well as models to predict potato dormancy and sprouting under various storage conditions
• Integration of agronomic, climatic, physiological, and certification-relevant datasets from a period of more than 30 years
• Comparison, validation, and optimization of forecasting models based on independent datasets and practical observations
• Development of decision support tools and contribution to implementation within Agrometeo+ and other digital platforms
• Publication of scientific articles, presentation of results at international conferences, and writing of research proposals
• Working in a multidisciplinary team and possible supervision of Master's and PhD students

What makes you unique

• PhD in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Bioinformatics, Agronomy, or a related field
• Sound specialist knowledge in the areas of Machine Learning, forecasting models, and statistical analysis
• Excellent programming skills in Python and/or R as well as experience with large datasets and reproducible workflows
• Knowledge in the areas of explainable AI, climate, or geospatial data is an advantage
• Excellent communication skills and scientific writing competence
• Very good knowledge of two official languages and English in spoken and written form

In a nutshell

The position contributes to two publicly funded research projects. Within the framework of the first project, models for predicting the risk of virus infection during the certification of seed potatoes are developed, taking into account historical certification data, weather variables, and cultivar susceptibility. Within the framework of the second project, operational models for predicting potato dormancy and sprouting during storage are developed, using data on cultivars, climate, and storage from more than 35 years. Together, these projects combine artificial intelligence, machine learning, and digital agriculture to provide decision support for the Swiss potato industry.
The projects are funded by the Federal Office for Agriculture (BLW) and are carried out in close cooperation with Agroscope, Swisspatat, and other partners.

What we offer

• Working for Switzerland: We are committed to the Swiss success model and work for the benefit of the population.
• Lived diversity: Thanks to equal opportunity, we develop our competencies and bring in different perspectives.
• Healthy at the workplace: We support and advise our employees in the area of physical and mental health.

All benefits (https://www.stelle.admin.ch/stelle/de/home/bundesverwaltung/ihre-vorteile-auf-einen-blick.html)

Good food, healthy environment

Agroscope is the Federal competence center for research in the agricultural and food sectors. Researchers carry out their activities at various locations in Switzerland. The headquarters is in Bern-Liebefeld (from 2026: Posieux FR). Agroscope is located within the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research WBF.

Additional information

The Cultivation Technology and Varieties Arable Crops research group develops sustainable production techniques as well as new, climate-change-adapted varieties for the most important arable crops, which are grown according to various production methods (integrated production, labels, or organic farming). To fulfill this mandate, the group conducts trials, mainly in open fields, from Lake Geneva to Eastern Switzerland.

Questions about the position

Brice Dupuis
Team Leader
+41 58 46 04748