Susanne Kratzer

Susanne Kratzer is an Associate Professor in Marine Ecology at Stockholm University's Department of Ecology, Environment and Botany, specializing in marine remote sensing and bio-optics with focus on Baltic Sea ecosystems. She leads the 'Group Scratches' research group and coordinates the Nordic Network for Baltic Remote Sensing. Her work integrates satellite data, field measurements, and modeling for coastal zone management.

Her educational background includes a German Diploma, Master's thesis in the School of Ocean Sciences (University of Wales, Bangor), and PhD in Biological Oceanography from the School of Ocean Sciences. She has been conducting marine remote sensing research at Stockholm University since 1997.

Her research focuses on developing novel methods for ocean color remote sensing in optically complex waters, with particular emphasis on Baltic Sea applications. She has pioneered algorithms for retrieving suspended matter, Secchi depth, and chlorophyll-a from satellite data, addressing challenges posed by high CDOM concentrations. Her work bridges optical oceanography with practical coastal management needs, especially eutrophication assessment.

Analysis of her recent publications reveals strong trends in satellite validation (particularly Sentinel-3 OLCI), integration of multi-source data (satellite, mooring, ship-based), and development of region-specific algorithms for Baltic Sea conditions. Her research increasingly addresses climate change impacts on coastal optical properties and monitoring requirements.

• National advisor for bio-optics in Swedish monitoring programs (SMHI, GU, UU, SU)
• Professional trainer for bio-optical measurements funded by Swedish Marine and Water Management Agency
• Contributor to 'The Colour of the Baltic Sea' film segment

She actively mentors students through teaching marine remote sensing and bio-optics at all academic levels, and has coordinated numerous PhD courses through the Nordic Network. Her current projects include developing advanced methods for imaging biomolecules, improving national guidelines for marine bio-optical measurements, and long-term operation of the AERONET-OC station in Lake Vänern.

Her research group maintains strong international collaborations with NASA, ESA, and European monitoring networks, contributing significantly to the integration of remote sensing into operational coastal zone management frameworks.