Research Associate (E13, RSiM, IV-166/26)

About us

Join the 'Berlin Institute for the Foundations of Learning and Data' (BIFOLD; www.bifold.berlin) as a doctoral researcher, where you will contribute to cutting-edge research in Data Management, Machine Learning, and their intersection. BIFOLD conducts scalable agile fundamental research in the field of AI in the German AI metropolis of Berlin. The institute is part of the network of six national competence centers for artificial intelligence research in Germany. Their joint task is to further establish Germany’s leading position as top-tier location for research on AI technologies.

Your responsibility

At the Big Data Analytics for Earth Observation group (https://rsim.berlin) of BIFOLD, we are seeking to hire a Research Assistant (Doctoral Researcher) interested in the design and development of foundation models for Earth observation. The selected candidate will focus on foundational research and current challenges in this field, including the development of novel algorithms and methods, as well as prototype systems and software tools. Possible topics include multi-modal and cross-sensor representation learning; parameter-efficient finetuning of foundation models; merging of foundation models; and continual learning in the framework of foundation models.

Your profile

• Successfully completed academic university degree (Master, Diplom or the equivalent) in computer science (e.g., theoretical, methodological-practical, or technical computer science)
• Knowledge of machine learning theories and methods (e.g., core methods, deep neural networks), practical experience in developing and applying ML algorithms, experience with linear algebra / neural network frameworks (e.g., NumPy, PyTorch, TensorFlow, JAX)
• Experience in remote sensing image analysis and some knowledge on large language models
• Good programming skills (e.g., Python, Java, C/C++)
• The ability to teach in German and/or in English is required; willingness to acquire the respective missing language skills.
• Strong communication skills in English is an advantage
• Early experience in research and paper writing is an advantage
• Experience in teaching and didactic competence is an advantage

 

Salary grade: TV-L 13, Berliner Hochschulen
Starting date: Earliest possible
Closing date: May 15, 2026 (for 5 years)
Full job posting: IV-166/26