Dr Chris Funk's research focuses on optimising remote sensing methods for monitoring droughts, extreme precipitation events and heat waves in tropical regions. A method for estimating precipitation that he was instrumental in developing has been used in hundreds of climate change adaptation studies because of its high quality. He has paid particular attention to Africa, developing new methods for predicting rainy seasons in the drought-stricken Horn of Africa. This has led to significantly improved early warnings for people in East Africa in recent years.

At the International Excellence Talks, Dr Funk will talk about his research on climate change, extreme weather events and food security.

Dr. Chris Funk is the current recipient of the "International Excellence Award" and the "Fellowship of SCHROFF Foundation". With this award, KIT honours the renowned scientist for his outstanding interdisciplinary research.