In Memoriam: Professor Enrico Tomelleri

The ICOS community of scientists grieves the sudden passing of Professor Enrico Tomelleri on the 14th of October, while he was on a research trip in the United States. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and colleagues. 

Enrico was a dedicated and active contributor to ICOS. As the manager of the Italian Renon (IT‑Ren) station, he played a key role in the development of the ICOS infrastructure. He led the development of a protocol for applying thermal imagery to study canopy temperature across the ICOS Ecosystem network and presented new insights into subalpine forest ecosystems at the recent ICOS Science Conference.  

Enrico’s expertise, generosity, and collaborative spirit made him a valued colleague across the research community. 

Carlos Calfapietra, ICOS Italy Focal Point from National Research Council of Italy said: “The ICOS community in Italy lost a friend and a colleague, who approached science with a positive and constructive spirit. He was strongly committed to data quality and open data sharing.” 

Dario Papale, Ecosystem Thematic Centre Director, added: “Enrico was working across RIs, linking ICOS and eLTER and developing new protocols to be applied in both the RIs. This says a lot about the person; he was able to connect people and different scientific fields.” 

The ICOS community will greatly miss Enrico, his expertise and dedication. His work will continue to support and inspire the field, leaving a legacy within ICOS and beyond.

Photo credit: the Free University of Bolzano