Vacant job

Are you interested in the space sector and want to work in a high-competence environment on exciting projects within defense and security? Then FOI might be your new workplace! We offer a balanced work-life, a developing work environment, and socially important work!

About the position

At the Space Systems & Capability Development unit, we conduct theoretical and experimental research and provide expert support regarding the development of space systems and satellite-based capabilities for the total defense.

Our activities cover the entire development chain for satellite systems, from concept development, requirements specification, and experimental design to the development of operations and associated ground and user systems. The work also includes the assessment and protection of satellite systems and services. Additionally, we work with the utilization and development of satellite services from a total defense perspective, for example by optimizing data acquisition or developing methods for robust and efficient communication with satellite systems.

As a researcher focusing on Earth observation, you will contribute to research, technology development, and knowledge building related to the use of Earth observation data and the development of Earth observation satellites and services. This may involve topics such as optical imaging satellite systems, SAR (Synthetic Aperture Radar), signals intelligence, data processing, data fusion, GIS processing, AI/machine learning, and database development.

Tasks may include needs analysis, concept work, requirements setting, technical review, system assessment, simulation and modeling, as well as the design, development, and evaluation of Earth observation experiments. It may also involve the development of various data processing methods and data analysis. The work is carried out in projects where you work closely with clients and together with experts in other parts of the agency. We encourage you to actively contribute to developing and leading projects and research within the organization. The role involves national and international travel and meetings.

About the unit

You will be part of the Space Systems & Capability Development unit, which belongs to the Defense Technology division and is located in Kista. Read more about what we do: Defense Technology (#).

Do you have the competence profile we need?

Requirements

We are looking for you who have:

• an advanced academic degree that FOI assesses as relevant for the position
• a doctoral education assessed as relevant for the position, or alternatively a couple of years of current work experience in a field relevant to the position
• excellent ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, in Swedish and English

As an employee at FOI, you will have significant responsibility for your own work, requiring you to be self-reliant, analytical, and structured. Since the work is project-based, often in collaboration with colleagues from different parts of the agency, we are looking for someone who thrives in cross-disciplinary cooperation.

We place great emphasis on your personal qualities.

Merits

• Work experience in Earth observation, e.g., with optical imaging systems, SAR, or signals intelligence (hardware and/or software)
• Work experience in concept development for Earth observation systems, as well as modeling and simulation of such systems
• Work experience in processing and analyzing satellite data, e.g., signal/image/GIS processing
• Work experience in data fusion and/or various AI/ML methods
• Work experience in database development
• Work experience in new Earth observation technologies, e.g., quantum sensors
• Work experience from relevant authorities or industry
• Experience working in international projects and collaborations

What do we offer?

The Swedish Defence Research Agency (FOI) is a government agency conducting world-leading research in defense and security to support Sweden's military and civil defense. We offer a unique workplace where you have the opportunity to work on issues that are important for the total defense and society as a whole. The research is applied both within defense authorities and by civilian actors, playing a crucial role in building a relevant and effective defense capability.

We work consciously to ensure a good work environment with a healthy balance between work and private life. In addition, we offer a range of benefits. Read more about what it is like to work with us: https://www.foi.se/jobba-hos-oss.html (https://www.foi.se/jobba-hos-oss.html)

The position is a permanent employment that may begin with a six-month probationary period.

Do you want to help find answers for a safer world?

Apply with your CV and cover letter via the application button by Tuesday, June 9, 2026!

For more information about the position, please contact Sandra Lindström. Union representatives are Staffan Lindgren (Saco-S) and Magnus Lindström (OFR/S – ST). All can be reached at 08-555 030 00.

As the position is security-classified, Swedish citizenship is required. Security clearance with register check will be conducted prior to employment according to the Security Protection Act (2018:585). Prior to the security clearance, certified copies of education and service certificates relevant to the position are requested.

FOI is a government agency, meaning submitted application documents become public records that may be disclosed to third parties upon request according to the Public Access to Information and Secrecy Act.

Offers from recruitment agencies are declined.