GIS/Geomatics Specialist – Research Mission (VIA)

Company: IRD IRD is a French multidisciplinary public research institution that, for nearly 80 years, has engaged in equitable partnerships with countries in the Global South and French overseas territories. As an actor in the international development agenda, its priorities align with implementing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Together, scientists and partners develop concrete solutions to global societal and environmental challenges—positioning science and innovation as key drivers of sustainable development. IRD operates under the joint supervision of the Ministry of Higher Education and Research and the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs. Mission Overview Under the supervision of Professor Awa Niang-Fall, the VIA (Volontaire International en Administration) will support the team primarily in research focused on understanding environmental changes and mapping risks affecting coastal socio-ecosystems in Senegal. Much of this work involves producing indicators and maps to contribute—among other objectives—to the establishment of a National Coastal Observatory, aimed at supporting the implementation and monitoring of national and territorial policies for coastal zone management—including tourism-related issues. This work is embedded within several international and national projects (e.g., WACA-VAR – Research component of the West Africa Coastal Areas Program; National Coastal Observatory in Senegal), enabling access to funding. Key Responsibilities Provide methodological and technical support—particularly to interns and PhD students—in: - GIS software use (e.g., QGIS) - Remote sensing and drone image processing - Survey data management and analysis Assist in training sessions led by senior specialists Participate in research activities, including: - Project workshops - Field data collection - Feeding an information platform Contribute to scientific dissemination and may be acknowledged as co-author on lab publications Support overall lab functioning by: - Organizing meetings and seminars (e.g., annual doctoral days) - Handling administrative tasks (e.g., procurement orders, contract preparation) under the supervision of the lab head and in coordination with the IRD Dakar Center administration Required Qualifications Master’s degree (M2) or Engineering degree in Geography, Geomatics, Geomorphology, Environment, Agronomy, or Economics Demonstrated proficiency in: - Designing and conducting surveys, organizing data storage and analysis - Using remote sensing and drone imagery - Integrating survey data with spatial layers to produce statistical or thematic maps using GIS software (e.g., QGIS) - Writing methodological protocols - Producing written analyses and reports, with guidance from researchers and faculty Personal Attributes Ability to integrate into multicultural and multidisciplinary teams Interest in diverse cultures and knowledge systems Enthusiasm for fieldwork and interaction with local communities (farmers, fishermen, etc.) Strong interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively—both on-site and remotely—with short- or long-term mission staff from various disciplines based in Dakar