Dr. Thota Sivasankar | Remote Sensing | Best Researcher Award

NIIT University- India 

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Early Academic Pursuits

Thota Sivasankar, Ph.D., embarked on his academic journey with a strong foundation in electronics and communications, earning his B.Tech. degree from RVR & JC College of Engineering, Guntur, India, in 2011. He then pursued an M.Tech. in Remote Sensing from Andhra University, Visakhapatnam, India, where his thesis focused on the spatio-temporal changes of HIV/AIDS in the Visakhapatnam district using a medical GIS approach. This early work demonstrated his interdisciplinary approach and innovative use of GIS in health studies. Dr. Sivasankar completed his Ph.D. in Geomatics from the Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines), Dhanbad, India, in 2019, with a thesis on Vegetation Biophysical Parameters using RISAT-1 Hybrid Polarimetric SAR Data, showcasing his expertise in advanced remote sensing techniques.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Sivasankar’s professional career is marked by significant contributions to both academia and research institutions. Since February 2020, he has been serving as an Assistant Professor in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) at NIIT University, Neemrana, India. Prior to this, he was a Research Scientist at the North Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC) in Umiam (Shillong), India, from December 2016 to December 2019. Here, he worked on disaster risk reduction, playing a crucial role in mitigating natural disasters in the North Eastern region of India. His earlier role as a Research Scholar in the Agriculture and Soils Division at the Indian Institute of Remote Sensing (IIRS), ISRO, Dehradun, India, further honed his research skills in remote sensing applications for agricultural and soil studies.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Sivasankar’s research has predominantly focused on the application of remote sensing and GIS technologies in environmental monitoring, disaster management, and agricultural studies. His Ph.D. work on RISAT-1 Hybrid Polarimetric SAR Data for vegetation analysis is a testament to his expertise in SAR data and its applications in environmental monitoring. At NESAC, he contributed to disaster risk reduction efforts, leveraging remote sensing data for early warning systems and mitigation strategies. His interdisciplinary approach combines technology with practical applications, addressing real-world problems through innovative research.

Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his career, Dr. Sivasankar has received recognition for his contributions to remote sensing and GIS. His work has been acknowledged in various academic and professional circles, highlighting his commitment to advancing the field. His innovative research and teaching methods have earned him accolades, establishing him as a respected figure in the academic community.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Sivasankar’s impact extends beyond his immediate research contributions. His role as an Assistant Professor allows him to shape the next generation of GIS professionals, imparting his knowledge and experience to students. His work in disaster risk reduction has had a tangible impact on the communities in North Eastern India, demonstrating the practical benefits of remote sensing technologies in mitigating natural disasters.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Dr. Sivasankar aims to continue his research in remote sensing and GIS, with a focus on developing new methodologies and applications that address global environmental challenges. His ongoing work at NIIT University is expected to produce significant advancements in the field, contributing to both academic knowledge and practical solutions for environmental monitoring and disaster management. Dr. Sivasankar’s legacy will be defined by his commitment to integrating technology with real-world applications, ensuring that his contributions have a lasting and meaningful impact on society.