Student Member Spotlight: Leo Thomas Ramos

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Student Member Spotlight
Leo Thomas Ramos

Written by: Kevin Corbley

A GRSS member since 2024, Leo Thomas Ramos is a PhD student at the Computer Vision Center, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, focusing his research on computer vision and multispectral imagery. Having studied Information Technology with a specialization in Artificial Intelligence at Yachay Tech University in his home county of Ecuador. A relative newcomer to the world of Earth Observation, Leo is fascinated by the potential applications of computer vision and multispectral satellite imagery. In his free time, he is an exercise enthusiast and loves to spend time outdoors hiking and playing soccer. He also enjoys music and following his favorite pro soccer team and F1 drivers.

Why did you decide to join GRSS?

It was a natural decision. To be honest, when I started working on my thesis project, I did not have much experience with multispectral imagery or remote sensing. Over time, I not only gained more technical knowledge, but I became really interested in Earth Observation. I enjoy it a lot now. So, as soon as I found out about the Society, I decided to join to connect with other researchers, stay updated on the latest news and developments, and be a part of a community that shares similar interests.

In terms of your academic work, your research right now, how do you expect GRSS will help you?

This is already starting to happen, especially through the opportunity to connect with researchers around the world, collaborate, and learn from them. GRSS also provides constant updates about conferences and talks, which I find useful to stay informed and to explore new directions in my research.

There are many activities that GRSS organizes. Which ones have you been able to take advantage of, and how have they benefited you?

I have taken part in many webinars and virtual talks. I hope to attend summer schools organized by GRSS, although I have not yet had the opportunity to participate in one. Additionally, one of my main goals is to attend IGARSS, and I would even like to organize a workshop there in the future.

Looking more long term, how do you expect GRSS will benefit you in your career after you earn your PhD?

Actually, it already does. As I mentioned, GRSS has allowed me to connect with other researchers, especially in Europe, and some collaboration plans have already started to take shape. That is why I believe GRSS will play an important role in helping me grow and establish myself in this field. I also hope that these connections can support me in pursuing a postdoctoral position or a similar opportunity after completing my PhD. Moreover, I would love to be part of an international research group or create one myself.

Has anything about GRSS differed from your expectations?

GRSS has exceeded my expectations. Not because I had doubts, but because I started connecting with researchers, institutions, and events very quickly. As someone relatively new to the field, I expected things to move more slowly and take longer to get involved, but it all happened surprisingly fast.

At what upcoming in-person events might people have a chance to meet you?

Unfortunately, I was not able to submit a paper for IGARSS 2025, but I am currently focusing on submitting to the 2026 edition. I also hope to participate in other regional GRSS conferences, possibly the Mediterranean or the Latin America event.

What words of encouragement would you offer to other students, PhD candidates like yourself, who were considering GRSS but not yet involved?

I would tell them not to hesitate for a second. As someone who is relatively new to the field, I felt very welcome and was able to connect quickly. Also, the Society keeps you up to date with the latest news and events. You become part of a great community with plenty of academic and professional opportunities.

Do you know an IEEE GRSS Student Member who deserves to be recognized? We invite you to submit a nomination by sending a brief message to ir_pub@grss-ieee.org with the subject: “Student Member Spotlight.”