Mathias Kneubühler

Mathias Kneubühler is a Senior Lecturer and Scientific Section Head of Remote Sensing Spectroscopy at the Department of Geography, Faculty of Science, University of Zurich. He leads the Spectroscopy Lab and has been a key figure in advancing imaging spectroscopy and Earth observation research. He is actively involved in international remote sensing initiatives, including serving as the Swiss ESA-DOSTAG Delegate and Co-Chair of the EARSeL Special Interest Group on Imaging Spectroscopy.

• PhD in Remote Sensing, University of Zurich (1997–2002)
• MSc in Geography, University of Zurich (1992–1996)

His research focuses on imaging spectroscopy, spectro-directional measurements, and ecosystem monitoring, with applications in plant phenology, biodiversity assessment, and land surface dynamics. He investigates how multi-angular and hyperspectral data can improve the understanding of vegetation structure, function, and environmental responses. His work integrates field spectroscopy, airborne and satellite remote sensing, and advanced data processing techniques.

The recent publications highlight a strong trend in imaging spectroscopy for ecological applications, including plant trait mapping, camouflage detection, tree species identification, and phenology modeling. These studies often involve UAV and satellite data fusion, BRDF correction, and machine learning, demonstrating interdisciplinary innovation in remote sensing science.

• Co-Chair, EARSeL Special Interest Group on Imaging Spectroscopy (2016–present)
• President, Swiss Commission for Remote Sensing (2015–2020)
• Swiss ESA-DOSTAG Delegate (2004–2024)

He has supervised several PhD and Master’s students, including Marius Vögtli, Christian Rossi, and Mojdeh Miraki, contributing to the next generation of remote sensing scientists. His leadership in organizing scientific workshops and campaigns underscores his role in fostering collaborative research. He is associated with the Spectroscopy Lab at the University of Zurich, which conducts cutting-edge research in spectro-directional measurements and environmental monitoring.