My name is Vishnu Perumthuruthil Suseelan, and I am a researcher specializing in ocean color remote sensing for coastal and open ocean water monitoring, particularly water quality monitoring and deriving phytoplankton community composition, including harmful algal blooms. I am based in Trondheim, Norway, where I continue to pursue my passion for marine science, utilizing the potential of HYPSO-1 satellites in monitoring water quality and harmful algal blooms.

I completed my PhD in Geography at the University of Victoria in Canada, where my research focused on characterizing phytoplankton communities in the subarctic northeast Pacific using multispectral ocean color satellite imagery and in situ hyperspectral radiometry. Specifically, my research explored the utilization of various observations such as in situ HPLC pigment data, environmental driver data, multispectral ocean color imagery, and in situ hyperspectral data. By highlighting the synergy of these datasets, we provided new insights into regional phytoplankton dynamics.

Throughout my career, I have published several peer-reviewed papers, including studies on the performance of Sentinel 3A OLCI products in the subarctic northeast Pacific and the seasonal dynamics of phytoplankton off the west coast of Canada. My work also includes research on bio-optical properties of the southeastern Arabian Sea, and the Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay, where I examined the impact of mariculture on water quality.

I have been involved in significant research projects, including those funded by the Canadian Space Agency and MEOPAR, focusing on using ocean color to study waters along the migration route of juvenile salmon. My fieldwork experience includes collecting and analyzing water samples for bio-optical and biogeochemical parameters.

My academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Physics from Kottayam, followed by a Master of Science in Environmental Science and Disaster Management from Mahatma Gandhi University in India. I have received various awards and fellowships, such as travel awards for international conferences and fellowships from ESA, MEOPAR, CSA, ISRO, and various other research institutions/organizations. Additionally, I have been a Teaching Assistant at the University of Victoria, where I led laboratory sessions in remote sensing and image analysis.

With my expertise in remote sensing and hyperspectral radiometry, I am dedicated to addressing the challenges facing our marine environments. My work aims to enhance our understanding of phytoplankton dynamics and their critical role in ocean ecosystems.