Research achievements
I am a pioneer and an internationally recognized leader in research in Global Navigation Satellite Systems Reflectometry (GNSS-R) for Earth Remote Sensing, with applications ranging from sea surface height and roughness to response to soil moisture and mapping of inland water bodies and inundations. Below are examples of expertise rendered followed by explanation of my role in the research output. As a PI on NASA awarded proposals, I designed and guided the data analysis and worked with a team including students and postdocs. In the first demonstration of the feasibility of the GNSS-R measurement over water, I identified the suitable data sets and algorithm strategy. I provided key parameters to generate the simulated data before it was available from actual measurements. I mentored postdocs about manipulating GNSS-R data in one of the first applications of GNSS-R. I developed the original algorithm used for the altimetry retrieval and extended an EM scattering model to the case of rough ocean surfaces to simulate forward scattered fully polarized fields. I designed and performed one of the first sensitivity studies to understand GNSS-R signals from ocean surfaces. I developed the model of the “altimetry waveform” and performed sensitivity studies on sources of error in sea surface height retrieval. I codeveloped the data analysis following data acquisition from airplane. I validated the first space-based detection of a GPS reflection with an instrument model that I developed. I co-designed the experiment and finalized data analysis. I extended a rough surface EM scattering model to include the spectrum of a wind driven ocean. In the last ten years I focused on understanding the potential of GNSS-R to the dynamic monitoring of inundated areas.
Other contributions to the research community
My role of (first Associate and later renamed) Deputy Chief Scientist of JPL was one of senior leadership at the institutional level in support of developing and integrating JPL strategic scientific goals , residing in the Office of Research and Development, part of the Director’s Office. This was a full-time role so my time available for research was limited to ~20%.
Leadership – For ~15 years until May 2023 I was a key contributor to JPL’s strategic science planning, formulation and management of the internal research and development program; an institutional interface with the external research and academic community, and an institutional steward of the internal research environment.
Management of Institutional Programs– For ~15 years until May 2023 I oversaw the JPL Postdoctoral Programs and managed the University Research Affairs of the Office of Research and Development, comprising the Postdoc Office and the University Research Partnerships. Previously have managed a section (80 scientists) in the Science Division of JPL.