Thigesh Vather -PDP PhD student, Grassland, Forest & Wetlands Node

Prior to starting my PhD, as a SAEON PDP in June 2016, I completed a BSc in Hydrology and Soil Science, an Honours degree in Hydrology and most recently a Masters in Hydrology at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. The field of hydrology interests me and my main focus has been on the remote sensing of soil moisture. This specific focus has allowed me to learn and experience many aspects of the science, such as field work, lab work and modelling. My Master degree investigated the use of the Cosmic ray probe to provide spatial estimates of soil moisture and validate satellite-based soil moisture estimates. The Cosmic ray probe is an innovative instrument that is not only new to South Africa, but fairly new to the world, such that its secondary applications are still being investigated. My PhD will focus on the use of the Cosmic ray technology for hydrological applications. This will involve the use of the cosmic ray probe and the cosmic ray rover, which is a mobile device used for soil moisture mapping of large areas. My PhD supervisors are Prof Colin Everson and Dr Michele Toucher.