For contributing to technical expertise through research collaborations with the Finnish Meteorological Institute, University of Helsinki, and industry, Colorado State University’s V. “Chandra” Chandrasekar has been awarded[1] the Insignia of Knight, First Class, of the Order of the White Rose of Finland.

Kirsti Kauppi, Ambassador of Finland to the United States, presented the insignia to Chandra on behalf of the Finnish government during a Sept. 29 ceremony at the Embassy of Finland in Washington, D.C.

A professor of electrical and computer engineering, a fellow of CIRA (Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere) and a University Distinguished Professor, Chandra is a leading expert in weather radar science and technology, and radar signal processing.

“I am somewhat overwhelmed by this, but I am happy to receive something to recognize our international activities,” Chandra said. “I am always thankful to CSU for having given me the opportunity, and for supporting my programs.”

Research collaborations

The Finnish company Vaisala has adopted many aspects of Chandra’s research into its weather and environmental measurement products. Chandra’s professional relationship with Finland[2] grew particularly during the period of 2010-14, when he collaborated through the FiDipro (Finnish Distinguished Professor) program with the Finnish Meteorological Institute and the University of Helsinki.

Chandra received the knighthood alongside Water F. Dabberdt, corporate senior adviser for Vaisala, who was bestowed the Insignia of Knight, First Class, of the Order of the Lion of Finland during the same ceremony.