As an Assistant Professor in the Nohad A. Toulan School of Urban Studies and Planning and a Research Associate in the Center for Urban Studies at Portland State University, my aim is to address three questions: (1) what is known about the effects of human activities on ecological integrity? (2) how do changes in ecosystems affect human preferences and decisions? and (3) how can institutions guide the growth of human settlements and its effects?
Research: To address these questions, I have four on-going research projects (more information on these projects is presented in the 'reseach' and 'publications' links above):
i. Coupling of Human and Natural Systems;
ii. Modeling Land Use and Water Consumption;
iii. Spatially-Explicit Tools for Environmental Planning; and
iv. Assessing the Implications of Urban Planning Policies on Human Health.
Courses: My research is inextricably linked with my approach to teaching. Currently, I teach graduate and undergraduate courses, including geographic information systems (GIS), environmental planning methods, and a readings seminar in urban studies and planning -- see the 'courses' link above for examples of my syllabi.
Training: I received a Bachelor’s degree in Biology (UC Santa Cruz), Master of Science degrees in Economics and Environmental Policy (Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute), and a PhD in Urban Design and Planning with a certificate in Urban Ecology (University of Washington). I have served as a health and environmental policy analyst for New York State's Governor's office and as a grade school teacher.
Contact: If you have questions about my teaching or research interests please feel free to contact me.
The information contained in this site is offered as a means for the public to learn more about my interests, and in no way reflects the opinions of Portland State University.