Post-doctoral researcher in data science and predictive modeling of potato crops

Nyon | 80-80%

What you can contribute

• Development of machine learning models and statistical models to predict the risk of viral infection in Swiss seed potato production, as well as models to predict potato dormancy and germination under different storage conditions
• Integration of agronomic, climatic, physiological, and certification-related datasets, covering a period of more than 30 years
• Comparison, validation, and optimization of forecasting models using independent datasets and observations from practice
• Development of decision support tools and contribution to their implementation within Agrometeo+ and other digital platforms
• Publication of scientific articles, presentation of results at international conferences, and writing of research project submissions
• Working within a multidisciplinary team and, if applicable, supervising master's and doctoral students

What makes you unique

• PhD in data science, statistics, computer science, artificial intelligence, bioinformatics, agronomy, or a related field
• Strong skills in the areas of machine learning, forecasting models, and statistical analysis
• Excellent programming skills in Python and/or R, as well as experience in processing large datasets and implementing reproducible workflows
• Knowledge in the fields of explainable AI, climatic or geographic data is an asset
• Excellent communication and scientific writing skills
• Very good knowledge of two official languages and English, both oral and written

In a few words

This position is part of two research projects funded by public funds. As part of the first project, models are being developed to predict the risk of viral infection during the certification of seed potatoes, taking into account historical certification data, meteorological variables, and variety sensitivity. As part of the second project, operational models are being developed to predict potato dormancy and germination during storage, based on data related to varieties, climate, and storage collected over more than 35 years. Together, these projects combine artificial intelligence, machine learning, and digital agriculture to provide decision support to the Swiss potato sector.
Projects are funded by the Federal Office for Agriculture (OFAG) and conducted in close collaboration with Agroscope, Swisspatat, and other partners.

What we offer

• Working for Switzerland: We are committed to the success of the Swiss model and the well-being of the population.
• Diversity in everyday life: We ensure equal opportunities, which allows us to deploy our skills and express different points of view.
• Health at work: We assist and advise our employees on all matters related to physical or mental health.

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

A healthy diet, a healthy environment

Agroscope is the Confederation's competence center for research in the fields of agriculture and the food industry. Researchers carry out their activities at various sites in Switzerland. The headquarters is located in Berne-Liebefeld (from 2026: Posieux FR). Agroscope is attached to the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research EAER.

Additional information

The Crop Production and Varieties research group is dedicated to researching sustainable production techniques and new varieties adapted to climate change for the main field crop species grown according to various production methods (integrated production, labels, or organic farming). To fulfill its mission, it is active in experimentation, mainly in open fields, from Lake Geneva to eastern Switzerland.

Questions about the position

Brice Dupuis
Team Leader
+41 58 46 04748