In a world where urban expansion is increasing, Dr. Sophie Taddeo, PhD, Assistant Professor of Environmental and Ocean Sciences, sheds light on the intricate relationship between human activities and urban ecosystems. Her research and teaching focus on the use of Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping technology to comprehend the coexistence of humans and natural habitats.
Dr. Taddeo’s interest in this field was sparked during her master’s degree thesis at McGill University, where she utilized GIS mapping to conduct a risk assessment of an invasive species in a protected wetland. This experience led her to contemplate the delicate balance between conserving natural habitats and meeting the needs of a growing human population. “That kind of question, with so many different variables, is explored using mapping and space analyses. I’m interested in the complex questions that can be answered by looking at different data sets,” shares Dr. Taddeo.
Currently teaching a course in GIS mapping, Dr. Taddeo incorporates her expertise into the curriculum, providing students with the technical skills needed to address spatial problems and make meaningful contributions to the field.
Having previously worked as a conservation scientist at the Chicago Botanic Garden, Dr. Taddeo emphasizes the value of GIS skills in environmental research and conservation efforts, recognizing that GIS proficiency opens doors to various career opportunities.
Dr. Taddeo’s appointment as part of the College of Arts and Sciences’ Climate Change and Environmental Justice cluster aligns with the university’s commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and academic excellence. Embracing the university’s collaborative hiring strategy, she recognizes the importance of interdisciplinary research and is eager to engage in cross-disciplinary projects.
Furthermore, Dr. Taddeo expresses her enthusiasm for USD’s dedication to fostering connections between disciplines and engaging with local communities in San Diego. “I’m really impressed by USD’s commitment to getting involved in local communities. A lot of institutions say that, but not all of them do it,” she remarks.
As she continues to delve into the interplay between urban ecosystems and human presence, Dr. Taddeo’s work stands as a testament to the significance of environmental research and the impact of mapping technology in understanding the complex dynamics of our urban environments.
Source: USD News Center