Chuanmin Hu

Chuanmin Hu is a Professor at the University of South Florida College of Marine Science, leading the Optical Oceanography Laboratory. His work integrates in situ optical measurements with satellite remote sensing to study coastal ocean dynamics, harmful algal blooms, and climate impacts on water quality.

• Education: Ph.D. in Physics (University of Miami, 1997)
• Research Focus: Ocean optics, remote sensing algorithms, algal blooms, carbon cycling, and coastal observing systems
• Leadership: Director of the Optical Oceanography Lab and developer of systems like Sargassum Watch System and Integrated Red tide Information System

His lab utilizes autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and high-resolution satellite data to map bio-optical properties in coastal zones, coral reefs, and estuaries. Recent innovations include the Virtual Buoy System for real-time water quality monitoring.

Scientific Awards:

• 2024 Pecora Group Award (USGS-NASA)

Dr. Hu's work bridges optical oceanography with practical coastal management solutions, addressing challenges like the Tampa Bay Piney Point effluent plume and Sargassum inundation forecasting. His group has produced over 100 peer-reviewed publications and developed multiple satellite-based monitoring platforms.