Hello, my name is
Rajaram Prajapati
Hydrologist
- livaraja08@gmail.com
About me
I am a hydrologist and Postdoctoral researcher specializing in remote sensing, surface hydrology, and citizen science with leadership and education experience.
Passionate about advancing water science through research, innovation, and community-driven solutions.
I recently completed my Ph.D. at the University of Pittsburgh, USA, focusing on the spatiotemporal dynamics of suspended sediment (SS) in riverine systems across different scales. My research integrates low-cost in-situ sensors, smartphone technology, and citizen science to monitor SS transport in small catchments, while utilizing satellite remote sensing data to analyze long-term trends of large rivers at a global scale. I investigate the influence of human activities, climate, and basin characteristics on SS variability. By leveraging innovative monitoring approaches, I aim to develop scalable, cost-effective solutions for sediment monitoring and management across diverse environmental settings.
I hold an M.Sc. in Water Resources Engineering from the Institute of Engineering, Pulchowk Campus in Kathmandu, Nepal. I am the founder and former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Smartphones For Water (S4W)-Nepal, where I led impactful initiatives for five years, leveraging citizen science to enhance water resource monitoring. Currently, I serve as the Global Ambassador for SmartPhones4Water (S4W), promoting community-driven data collection efforts across different regions.
My Research Interests
I am passionate about exploring hydrology, remote sensing, citizen science, and science communication to bridge data gaps and advance water resource management.
Hydrology
Investigating water systems to improve understanding and management of water resources.
Citizen science
Engaging communities in scientific research to address data gaps and local challenges.
Remote Sensing
Utilizing satellite technology to analyze and monitor Earth's surface for hydrological studies.
Science Communication
Bridging the gap between science and society through effective knowledge sharing.
My Current Roles
I strive to combine science, technology, and collaboration to address water resource challenges and empower communities through my current roles.
Postdoctoral Associate, University of Pittsburgh
Conducting advanced research in surface hydrology using remote sensing technologies.
Global Ambassador, S4W
Promoting global partnerships and innovative approaches to water resource management.
Founder & Country Director, s4w-nepal
Leading initiatives to empower communities and improve water knowledge through citizen science.
Country ambassador, citizenscience asia
Representing Nepal in fostering citizen science collaborations across Asia.
research Scientist, REAMO
Advancing hydrological research and developing innovative methods for data collection and analysis.
Founder and Advisor, Young Reseachers' circle
Mentoring young researchers and fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation.
Skills
My Experience
2022-Present
SmartPhones for Water, Chico, CA, USA
Global Ambassador
Promote global collaboration and innovation in citizen science initiatives for sustainable water resource management.
2017-2021
Smartphones For Water
Founder and Chief Executive Officer
Led the establishment and growth of S4W-Nepal, driving its mission to improve water resource knowledge and management.
2016-2017
Khwopa Engineering College, Bhaktapur, Nepal
Assistant Lecturer (Part-time)
Taught and mentored students in water-related courses, fostering academic growth and practical understanding.
2015-2016
Khwopa College of Engineering, Bhaktapur, Nepal
Assistant Lecturer (Part-time)
Taught and mentored students in water-related courses, fostering academic growth and practical understanding.
My Recent Projects
A Global Perspective on Riverine Suspended Sediment Trends and Drivers
PhD Scholar | 2023-2025
Monitoring and Evaluating Suspended Sediment in Himalaya (MESSHI)
Project Lead | 2023-2024
Citizen Science based hydro-meteorological monitoring in the Kathmandu, Nepal
Project Lead | 2017-2021, Advisor | 2022-Present
My Recent Publications
Prajapati, R., Gardner, J., Pavelsky, T., and Talchabhadel, R., 2024.
Water Resources Research
Tran, H., Rutten, M., Prajapati, R., Tran., H, Duwal, S., Nguyen, D., and Davids, J.C., 2024.
Environmental Monitoring and Assessment
Bista, S., Baniya, R., Prajapati, R., Sharma, S., Ghimire, G., Thapa, B., and Talchabhadel, R., 2024.
Journal of Hydrology, 636, 131310.