What is your research focus and why is it so interesting?
I’m an agricultural remote sensing researcher passionate about using cutting-edge technology to help farmers and the environment thrive. My research focuses on developing new methods and models to monitor crops, especially in grasslands, using remote sensing data from drones, satellites (#RS4Agriculture), and machine learning algorithms. This research focus enables timely crop growth monitoring, optimizing crop yields, reducing inputs, and protecting the land for future generations. Further, I get excited about exploring the bigger picture of how land use and land cover changes are derived from satellite remote sensing data, linked to urbanization, agricultural intensification, and how we can use spatial data to inform more sustainable practices. It’s a complex puzzle, but I believe that by working together, we can find innovative solutions that benefit both people and the planet.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I am working on quantitative research, collecting data from the field and then analysing it on my computer. Most of my summers are dedicated to field work, where I travel to crop fields and grasslands, fly drones, and collect necessary reference ground truth data (e.g., biomass, leaf area, plant height). This allows me to travel to very aesthetic landscapes and meet new people, which is the most enjoyable part of my work. But when autumn and winter roll around and it gets all cold and dark, I’m stuck in my office writing code to develop my models. It can be a bit of a drag, but when it all comes together and my models work like they’re supposed to, that’s pretty satisfying too. On the other hand, I teach every semester and enjoy the time with students.
What is your favourite thing to do when you are not working?
I have a lovely family with two wonderful kids. Whenever I have free time, I love to spend time with them by visiting the zoo or aquarium and hiking nearby. Sometimes, I try to cook interesting recipes for my family.
What was your dream job as a child?
Honestly, there were a few of them. When I was too young, I wanted to be a news presenter or radio host, and later wanted to become a teacher. But once I entered the University, what I do now is my dream job.
Who would you like to meet for a coffee?
If I want to meet for a coffee, I will go with my old university friends from Sweden or Sri Lanka to discuss and laugh about our old memories and stupid things.
This article offers a fascinating glimpse into the authors life, blending scientific passion with personal joy. It makes remote sensing and agricultural research feel approachable and inspiring.