Anwar Assefa Adem: bridging data gaps for effective environmental solutions

Why do you believe you are deserving of a MOPGA scholarship?

I believe I was awarded the MOPGA scholarship due to the strength and relevance of my research proposal, which successfully met the interests and requirements of my local supervisor, the host institution, and the scholarship program. Moreover, the alignment of my project with the eligibility criteria, both in terms of academic merit and potential impact, was key in securing the scholarship. I crafted a proposal that demonstrated scientific rigor, a clear methodology, and a practical vision for contributing to the global effort to address environmental sustainability, which strongly resonated with the selection committee. The collaborative nature of my project also appealed to my host institution, as it promised to foster meaningful partnerships and cross-border research initiatives.

What inspired you to become a scientist?

The primary inspiration for becoming a scientist stemmed from observing the low understanding of both natural and man-made problems within my local community. I realized that many critical issues, whether environmental degradation, resource management, or the impacts of human activity, were often overlooked or misunderstood. This lack of awareness and actionable knowledge motivated me to pursue science, with the belief that as a researcher, it is my responsibility to investigate these issues deeply and provide evidence-based, scientific solutions to benefit the community.

Why did you choose to work with IRD?

I choose to work with IRD because of its renowned commitment to addressing critical global challenges through sustainable development research. IRD’s focus on interdisciplinary collaboration, especially in key areas such as environmental conservation, climate change, biodiversity, and sustainable resource management, perfectly aligns with my research interests. Moreover, IRD’s mission to collaborate with developing countries to co-create scientific knowledge that promotes equitable and sustainable development is highly appealing to me. The institute’s emphasis on international collaboration provides a unique platform to ensure the benefit of the local communities, particularly those facing significant environmental and socio-economic challenges.

What activities do you carry out in the field? In the laboratory?

In my research, most activities are office-based, where I will focus on the collection, processing, and analysis of time series and Earth observation data. I will work with satellite imagery and remote sensing data to monitor meteorological, hydrological, and agricultural droughts. Using specialized software, I will process and prepare large datasets for further analysis. I will apply statistical and computational methods to analyze temporal trends in hydro-meteorological data, which helps in understanding changes over time, whether due to natural variability or human activity. Once the data is analyzed, I will compile the results into reports, visualizations, or scientific papers.

How do your works contribute to improving living conditions in your country or region?

In developing countries like Ethiopia, data scarcity poses a significant challenge for research and development, particularly in areas such as environmental management and disaster preparedness. My research will help to address this gap by utilizing Earth observation data as an alternative source for drought monitoring and forecasting. By leveraging satellite imagery and remote sensing technologies, I will be able to track key environmental indicators such as soil moisture levels, vegetation health, and rainfall patterns in near real-time. This allows for more accurate and timely drought predictions, which is critical for improving food security and water resource management.

How does your research address sustainability science?

Lack of data is a significant challenge for sustainable development, as it impedes the ability to make informed decisions and implement effective solutions. Improving access to reliable and comprehensive data is crucial for addressing sustainability issues and promoting informed, evidence-based policies. My research directly contributes to sustainability science by addressing this critical data gap. By utilizing Earth observation data for drought monitoring and forecasting, I will provide a valuable resource for both practitioners and researchers. This work fills existing data voids, offering accurate and timely information that supports sustainable development efforts.

Contact science : Anwar Assefa Adem, IRD, Espace-Dev anwarasefa@gmail.com

Contact communication : Julie Sansoulet communication.occitanie@ird.fr