Michael Robin Raupach 1950–2015

For four decades from the mid 1970s, Dr Michael Robin Raupach (Mike) was recognised around the world as a pre-eminent researcher in the fields of micrometeorology and Earth System science. A scientist who combined a fertile imagination with outstanding analytical and mathematical skill, he played a pivotal role in transforming the way we understand and model interactions between those key components of the climate system, the living biosphere, and the atmosphere. Based on the fundamental advances he had made in the understanding of flow and transport of heat, water vapour, momentum and trace gases at plant canopy scales, Mike proceeded to apply this knowledge at regional and then global scales, providing us with some of the essential tools that are now being used to understand anthropogenic climate change. As well as a brilliant scientist, Mike was a much-valued mentor and supporter to colleagues around the world, especially to young scientists with whom he generously shared his help and insights.