Michael Routhier has been working at the Complex Systems Research Center for ten years. He currently manages the CSRC Laboratory for Remote Sensing and Spatial Analysis.

Michael's position is the embodiment of support for the three-fold mission of the University; teaching, research and outreach. Beyond the day-to-day duties of managing the lab, Michael conducts software training classes within his department, provides Geographic Information System (GIS) support to the NASA Earth Science Information Partners Project and coordinates the GIS Day conference. The conference is an annual event that brings high school students to the University to learn about the Geo-Sciences and to inform them of related educational and career opportunities. With responsibilities like these it's a wonder that Michael finds time for participation in the Morse Maniacs ski racing team and the Lab's summer Bake-Off contest, not to mention department picnics and canoe trips.

What are the rewards of working in a scientific research environment of the caliber of the Complex Systems Research Center? For Michael, who is driven by a fascination with the Geo-Sciences and a fundamental desire to understand environmental processes, it is the opportunity to work in an environment that fosters self-improvement and allows for the building of collegial relationships amongst researchers, professors and students.