Early Academic Pursuits:
Jyoti Sharma’s academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Physics, Mathematics, and Chemistry from M. J. P. Rohilkhand University, Bareilly, followed by a Master’s in Physics from the same institution. These foundational years laid the groundwork for her future academic pursuits and research interests.
Professional Endeavors:
Upon completion of her master’s degree, Sharma embarked on her Ph.D. in Remote Sensing at the Department of Physics, Indian Institute of Technology, BHU, Varanasi. Her doctoral research focused on “Retrieval of soil moisture and biophysical parameters using microwave spaceborne observations.” This period marked her transition into the realm of Earth observation and satellite data analysis.After obtaining her Ph.D., Sharma transitioned into the role of a Research Associate at the Hydrology Process Group, National Centre for Earth Science Studies, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Here, she delved deeper into hydrology processes, further honing her skills in data analysis and satellite data processing.
Contributions and Research Focus:
Sharma’s research has primarily revolved around leveraging satellite data for environmental monitoring and assessment. Her expertise spans LU/LC mapping/classification, image processing, and radar data analysis. Through her work, she has contributed significantly to the understanding of soil moisture dynamics and biophysical parameters, crucial for agricultural and environmental management.
Accolades and Recognition:
Sharma’s contributions have been recognized both nationally and internationally. She received the Best Poster Award in the category of “Retrieval and Assessment” at the International Soil Moisture School (ISMS) by IEEE-GRSS society, held at IIT Bombay, Mumbai, in 2023. Additionally, her academic achievements include qualifying the CSIR-NET JRF in Physical Science with an impressive All India Rank of 98 in 2017.
Impact and Influence:
Sharma’s work has left a lasting impact on the fields of remote sensing and hydrology. By advancing methodologies for soil moisture retrieval and leveraging satellite data for environmental monitoring, she has contributed to the scientific community’s understanding of Earth’s systems. Her research findings have implications for agricultural productivity, water resource management, and climate change mitigation.
Legacy and Future Contributions:
As Sharma continues her career as a Project Scientist at the India Meteorological Department, her legacy extends beyond individual achievements to shaping the future of Earth observation and environmental science. Through continued research, mentorship, and collaboration, she aims to further enhance our understanding of Earth’s processes and contribute to sustainable development initiatives globally.