Juan Alberto Molina Valero holds a PhD and MSc in forestry sciences from the University of Santiago de Compostela (2022, 2017) and a BSc in forestry engineering from the University of Córdoba (2015). He is also a member of the Spanish Society of Forestry Sciences, which awarded him the prize for the best forestry doctoral thesis in Spain in 2022, entitled Modelling Forest Stand Maturity from National Forest Inventory and Terrestrial Laser Scanning Data. His research has focused mainly on the topics of forest modelling, forest monitoring and processing and analysis of point cloud data from terrestrial LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) devices (e.g. terrestrial laser scanners). In addition, he has developed the R package FORTLS, which focuses on automatic processing of point cloud data produced by ground-based technologies for forestry purposes. Alongside his research, Juan is also integrating other remote sensing platforms (e.g., drones, light aircrafts and satellites) and technologies (e.g. aerospace radar technology) with the aim of increasing both the spatial and temporal scale of forest monitoring.
Juan began his academic journey in Spain, with enriching international experiences in Chile and Estonia. A chance job application led him to the Czech University of Life Sciences Prague (CZU), where he now works as a postdoctoral researcher at the Faculty of Environmental Sciences. Here, he has been supported by prestigious fellowships like the MERIT program, allowing him to establish his research on forest monitoring using remote sensing technologies.
- What motivated you to pursue a postdoctoral fellowship at the Czech University of Life Sciences Prague (CZU)?
My initial connection to CZU was somewhat serendipitous, as I applied to a job offered by Professor Peter Surový. Once I joined, I was struck by how the Czech Republic prioritizes innovation and research while also maintaining a high quality of life. These factors, combined with the opportunity to develop my own research, motivated me to pursue postdoctoral fellowships like the MERIT (Mobility for Excellence in Research, Innovation and Technology) program, which has allowed me to explore innovative projects in forest monitoring.
- Your research at CZU focuses on monitoring forest maturity using remote sensing technologies. Can you explain how this research is conducted and its significance?
Forests play a critical role in biodiversity and climate regulation. My research focuses on the "forest maturity gradient," which measures the naturalness of forests, ranging from intensively managed systems to untouched old-growth forests. Understanding this gradient is crucial for implementing sustainable forest management practices and preserving biodiversity, particularly as outlined in the EU Forest Strategy for 2030.
While conventional forest inventories are costly and time-consuming, using remote sensing technologies like terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) and satellite data can can greatly expand the scale and frequency of monitoring. To achieve this, I will need to develop models to map key forest indicators such as deadwood, large trees, and structural complexity. This work will enable more efficient, large-scale monitoring and supports decision-making for conservation and forest management. This is where my research comes in, focused on improving methods for monitoring forest maturity, specifically in Norway spruce forests in the Czech Republic.
Fig. 1. Reference framework for forest maturity. Ranging from low (RFM, rotation forest management), intermediate (CCF, continuous cover forestry) and high (OGF, old-growth) degrees of maturity.
3. How do you see your research contributing to the adaptation of Czech forests to climate change?
While my research doesn’t directly address climate change, it provides tools to manage forests more effectively, making them more resilient to disturbances like wildfires or pest outbreaks. Forest structure heavily influences how it responds to challenges. For instance, forests with continuous vertical structures are more prone to severe, uncontrollable fires; while uniform forests with fewer species are more vulnerable to pests, both worsened by global warming. By improving monitoring and management at a landscape level, we can create more resilient forests capable of handling future challenges, all grounded in scientific evidence.
4. What are the potential benefits of the open-source software you are developing for forestry companies, and how do you envision it being utilized in the future?
I created FORTLS, an R package designed to automate the processing of LiDAR data collected through terrestrial laser scanning. This software can measure tree attributes, calculate forest metrics, and optimize survey designs, offering significant time and cost savings for forestry companies.
In the future, FORTLS could replace traditional field surveys in certain contexts, making forest inventories more efficient. It also has the potential to improve large-scale predictions from airborne and satellite sensors, enhancing forest monitoring on a broader scale.
Fig. 2. Point cloud obtained with ground-based LiDAR technology (Terrestrial Laser Scanner, TLS).
5. Can you tell us more about the MERIT program?
The MERIT program (Central Bohemian Mobility for Excellence in Research, Innovation and Technology) is an initiative supported by Horizon Europe and the Central Bohemian Region. It offers postdoctoral researchers opportunities to develop cutting-edge projects while acquiring transferable skills like open science practices and project management.
As part of the program, I’ll complete secondments at the University of Edinburgh and two Czech companies, Vojenské lesy a statky and GISAT, to broaden my expertise and strengthen ties between academic and non-academic sectors. I also receive mentoring on commercializing my research and balancing work-life demands.
Advantages and challenges of Living in Czechia
6. What specific advantages have you experienced as a researcher living and working in Czechia?
One of the greatest advantages here is the central location in Europe, which makes networking and collaborating with Northern European forestry researchers much easier. The dynamic international research environment at CZU, with frequent events and conferences, is another highlight. I’ve enjoyed the freedom to pursue my ideas and the respect given to my work, key to meaningful research success. Generous vacation time in the academia and Prague’s rich culture, history, and activities add balance and joy to life. The Czech emphasis on hobbies, spontaneous social plans, excellent public transport, and a strong sense of safety contribute to a low-stress, high-quality lifestyle.
7. What challenges have you encountered while living and working in Czechia, especially as an international researcher?
The biggest challenge for me has been the language barrier. While English works in Prague, learning Czech is important for full integration, especially for socializing or tasks like hospital visits, where English may be limited. Czech is particularly tough for Spanish speakers. Otherwise, living in Prague is relatively easy, though finding quality fish, a staple of the Mediterranean diet, can be tricky. Bureaucracy is also simpler as a European citizen, but I understand it may be harder for non-EU researchers.
8. How have you managed to overcome these challenges, and what advice would you give to other international researchers considering a move to Czechia?
To fully enjoy life in Czechia, avoid constantly comparing cultures and embrace the experience as unique. Engaging with local society and learning Czech early can help you feel more at home. Connecting with a supportive research group is vital, not just for output but for personal and professional growth. Actively seek opportunities, such as on social media, where I found my first postdoc position. For competitive programs like MERIT, strong, innovative ideas and networking are key. Attend conferences and events to build connections—opportunities often come to those who make themselves known in the research community.
9. How do you see your research evolving over the next few years, particularly within the context of the MERIT program?
I don’t plan far ahead, as research is unpredictable, but the MERIT program offers incredible opportunities for growth. It’s enhancing my research skills for an academic career and preparing me for the labor market through secondments, like at the University of Edinburgh, where I’ll learn spaceborne radar technology. The mentoring program is especially valuable, helping me explore commercializing my software or offering it as a service. Overall, it’s about advancing knowledge and turning it into impactful tools for society.