Title: Assistant Research Professor
Institution: Northern Arizona University
Email: Jean-Francois.Smekens@nau.edu
Phone: (928) 523-5898
Visit Jean-Francois’s Research Website
Research Interests: Air quality, volcanic emissions, wildfire emissions, thermal anomalies, spectroscopy
Biographical Sketch:
Originally from Belgium, where I obtained a BS-equivalent degree in Geological Sciences, I then moved to France for a MS in Volcanology, and then on the the USA where I received a PhD in Geological Sciences from Arizona State University. After 3 postdoctoral appointments in Europe and the US, I am now a Research faculty at Northern Arizona University. My research involves the use and development of spectroscopic and imaging techniques to monitor and quantify emission of gases, aerosols and ash from volcanoes, and to monitor air quality in areas affected by natural phenomena such as volcanic eruption and forest fires. I have a large experience in using commercial off-the-self (COTS) components to develop custom solutions in remote sensing and address specific science questions. I work with sensors in the UV, visible and IR wavelengths, with the goal of establishing solutions for continuous monitoring of hazardous phenomena.
Education:
PhD in Geological Sciences from Arizona State University (Tempe, AZ, USA), granted 2015
MS in Volcanology from Université Blaise Pascal (Clermont-Ferrand, France), granted 2005
BS (equivalent) in Geological Sciences fromUniversité de Liège (Liège, Belgium), granted 2004
Professional Certifications:
FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification
Other Research:
- Validating volcanic degassing retrievals using a novel ground-based thermal infrared camera system: Preparing for the upcoming SBG mission
- UAS Thermal Infrared Spectroscopy Will Improve Real Time Evaluation of Hazards and Environmental Impacts of Wildfires