Dr. Cihlar’s
scientific interests deal with earth science, environmental monitoring, and the application of satellite systems and other geomatic
tools for knowledge-based environmental management. Between 1990 and 2001, Dr. Cihlar was actively involved in numerous
international programs dealing with global observation, including the Global Terrestrial Observing System and the Global Climate
Observing System. He co-led the development of global terrestrial carbon observation initiatives on behalf of the space agencies
and several UN organizations. Dr. Cihlar has received numerous awards for his achievements in Canada and from international
agencies in recognition of his contributions to the development of global observing concepts and systems. He was the first remote
sensing scientist to be elected as Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada (2000), was elected Fellow of the Canadian Aeronautics
and Space Institute in 2002, and received the 2002 CRSS Remote Sensing Gold Medal.