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Dr Stephen Gensemer

Senior Research Scientist, Physicist, And Developer Of Sensor Technologies

https://people.csiro.au/G/S/Stephen-Gensemer

Contact details:

PO BOX 10041
ADELAIDE SA 5000 AUSTRALIA

Biography

I am a senior scientist in the Optical Systems Team. I develop optical devices for satellites and remote sensing, monitoring of agricultural crops, lakes and rivers, along with many other applications.

I have worked as an experimental physicist for over 20 years, studying atomic interations at extremely low temperatures using laser cooling. I did my Ph.D. at University of Connecticut, and worked in research at NIST, the University of Amsterdam, Penn State University, and University of Sydney. We studied fundamental aspects of atomic physics, quantum mechanics, and precision measurements using atomic clocks.

I also taught physics and astronomy to high school and college students, and managed a public astronomical observatory.

Since working at CSIRO, I have been moving from the laboratory into the natural environment. I work with ecologists, agricultural researchers, computer scientists, and companies to bring optical systems into the landscape to understand how plants, animals, water, and the landscape change over time.

Most recently I have been working to develop sensors that will launch in satellites and fly in high altitude balloons and drones.

I am excited about bringing laboratory and research tools into the real world, to help us solve environmental and practical problems. I enjoy collaborating with researchers and the general public to use technology wisely, and sustainably in the natural environment.

Other Interests

From childhood I have been captivated and energized by the most fundamental questions: What is the universe made of? Where did life come from? Will our species survive?

I spend many days off exploring the hiking trails of the Adelaide Hills, and amazing national parks of Australia with my family. I also enjoy tending to a small herd of sheep, a flock of chickens, and two dogs at our home just outside Adelaide. Many evenings I play banjo, and read classical literature.