At the intersection of AI and Earth Observation (EO), my work has focused on pushing boundaries while ensuring technology serves society responsibly. Over the past decade, I have helped introduce and shape three transformative ideas within the geoscience community: deep learning, responsible AI, and foundation models. My goal has always been to bridge methodological innovation with purpose - translating AI research into tangible environmental and societal benefits. I have been fortunate to contribute to building collaborative ecosystems such as AI for Earth Observation (AI4EO), founding the AI4RS group at the Institute of Advanced Research in Artificial Intelligence (IARAI), and cofounding the medical AI startup VasoGnosis. These experiences have strengthened my belief that meaningful progress happens where disciplines meet and ideas are shared openly. My research on Planetary AI has gained international recognition, reflected in anH-index of 88, nearly 35,000 citations, and consistent inclusion among Clarivate’s Top 1% Most Cited Researchers. Beyond my scientific contributions, I have led several major AI initiatives, securing competitive multi-million funding through programmes including Horizon, the Helmholtz Foundation Model Initiative, the Helmholtz High Potential Programme, and Humboldt, advancing trustworthy AI for Earth observation and environmental intelligence. In leadership roles, including Co-chair for Policy Briefs and Ethics at AI4EO-GEO and Chair for Responsible AI in IEEE GRSS (IADF-TC), I am committed to advancing open science, ethical AI governance, and inclusive research cultures.