General information

Reference

2026-3983  

Position description

Category

F13 Hydrogeology - Engineer / Researcher

Job title

Postdoctoral Researcher in Hydrogeology: AI-based Modelling (M/F)

Contract

Post-doctoral contrat

Contractual hours

Full-time

Contract duration

12 months

Context and contributions of the position

BRGM is the French Geological Survey, the leading public institution for Earth Science applications for the management of surface and subsurface resources with a view to sustainable development.

BRGM is actively involved as a coordinator and as a partner in several EU and French projects supporting technologies for resources efficiency, mineral intelligence, circular economy policies and environmental impacts mitigation.

The ANR-funded project AIDA (Actionable XAI for Deep Learning Algorithms), within which BRGM is responsible for Work Package 3 (Domain-Specific Experimentation – Groundwater), aims to assess the ability of hydrogeological models to integrate expert knowledge and to provide reliable explanations.

Model explainability (XAI) has become a critical issue for ensuring the transparency and robustness of predictions, particularly in the context of water resources management.

As part of this postdoctoral position, you will be in charge of Task 3.2 of the project, which focuses on analysing the adequacy of existing models with respect to explainability indicators and proposing a roadmap for their improvement.

This research is embedded in an interdisciplinary approach combining hydrogeology, artificial intelligence, and physical modelling.

Job description

As a postdoctoral researcher, you will focus on key research directions at the intersection of hydrogeology, artificial intelligence, and physical modelling.

The scientific objective of this task is to assess whether the explanations produced by artificial intelligence and explainability (XAI) methods genuinely reflect the capabilities of the hydrogeological models used at BRGM.

This will involve translating explainability indicators into operational criteria, analysing the structure and logic of the models in order to identify the parameters influencing the integration of expert knowledge, and proposing a roadmap to improve these models.

Collaboration with a multidisciplinary team will therefore be essential, as you will lead the research efforts related to Task 3.2 and communicate the results through reports and scientific publications.

The expected deliverables include a scientific communication on the adequacy of existing models with respect to the explainability space, as well as a report detailing recommendations and the roadmap for their improvement.

Profile

Starting date: April 2026
Contract type: Post-doctoral contract – 1 year
Formation: PhD
Experience : Junior

The candidate must hold a PhD in hydrogeology, geosciences, or water sciences, and demonstrate a strong knowledge of artificial intelligence methods applied to modelling.

They must be proficient in the processing and interpretation of hydrogeological data, in particular piezometric time series, as well as in the production and analysis of piezometric maps.

Experience in the use of predictive models, particularly for time series, is required.
Familiarity with uncertainty assessment methods and model explainability (XAI) would be an asset.

Strong proficiency in programming tools (Python, Pandas, PyTorch, etc.) and geographic information systems (QGIS, ArcGIS) is required, and knowledge of version control best practices is desirable.

The candidate must also demonstrate autonomy, scientific rigour, strong critical analysis and synthesis skills, be comfortable working in a multidisciplinary team—particularly with AI experts—and be able to write scientific reports and articles in both French and English.

This position offers the opportunity to further develop your expertise in artificial intelligence while working on cutting-edge applications involving complex hydrogeological datasets and the resolution of real-world problems.

Working conditions

In a work environment that supports a healthy work-life balance, notably through remote working options, BRGM stands out for its culture of kindness.

Certified with the HRS4R label in 2021, our aim is to support you throughout your professional journey at BRGM. We offer a wide range of programs to help you develop your skills and expertise.

At BRGM, you will benefit from several advantages, including a 13-month salary structure, additional leave days (JRTT), an on-site restaurant, sports facilities,...

BRGM guarantees a transparent recruitment process. To apply, please send us your application (updated CV and cover letter).

All our positions are open to everyone — at BRGM, we are committed to diversity!

Your application will be reviewed once the posting period has ended. If your profile is shortlisted, we will contact you for recruitment interviews, during which you will meet with the hiring unit and the HR team.

Position location

Job location

France, Centre-Val de Loire, Loiret (45)

Location