Water security is crucial for sustainable development, especially considering the effects of climate change on the hydrological cycle, including altered rainfall patterns, outflows, and aquifer recharge. Consequently, assessing water availability in current and future scenarios is imperative.The focus of this proposal is to develop an ecohydrological modeling approach that encompasses large-scale interactions among soil, water, and vegetation. One of the primary challenges in ecohydrological modeling, particularly in data-scarce environments like southern Italy, is the model calibration. Thus, special attention will be given to establishing a consistent and reliable parametrization. Therefore, a novel model procedure will be developed, leveraging spatio-temporal information obtained from Earth Observations data for model calibration and validation.The main objectives are: 1) Provide a comprehensive description of hydrological dynamics i.e. mass and energy exchanges in soil-vegetation-atmosphere continuum, by exploiting available ground observations and remote sensing products; 2) Investigate the impact of climate change on water needs; 3). Develop scenarios and strategies for effectively managing and optimizing water resources.Our primary goal is to advance our understanding of water resource dynamics, strengthen our readiness to handle the impacts of climate change, and actively promote sustainable management of water resources.

Hydrological modelling, remote sensing, Matlab coding, data processing

The PhD will carry out the activities under the guidance of Prof. Salvatore Manfreda (Department of Civil, Building and Environmental Engineering of the University of Naples Federico II) and Prof. Guido D’Urso (Dept. Agricultural Sciences) which are leading institute in hydrology and remote sensing applications. University of Naples Federico II is developing new innovative technologies for hydrological modelling and environmental monitoring using remote sensing from spaceborne platforms and unmanned aerial systems. The environment is a stimulating and challenging one with a strong and significant international dimension.