Ian is the Senior GIS Analyst and Spatial Data Specialist in the Global Land Use and Environment Lab, where he has worked since 2014. His work integrates geospatial analysis, cartography, and data science to understand how human activity drives land-use change and impacts natural ecosystems. With a solutions-oriented mindset, he brings together information from a team of geographers, economists, computer scientists and field researchers to provide actionable insights for NGOs, policymakers, and other researchers.

He thrives in dynamic, interdisciplinary environments and is especially drawn to work that blends environmental research, data storytelling, and applied geospatial technology. Ian’s research focuses on land systems science and conservation, with a particular emphasis on how policy—both public and private—shapes the environmental outcomes of agricultural expansion. He has led and supported projects analyzing commodity-driven deforestation across Brazil, Colombia, Peru, and the United States, with a focus on soy, cattle, coffee and oil palm supply chains. Leveraging spatial data processing, remote sensing, custom scripting in Python and R, Ian creates clear, compelling analysis, maps and visualizations that bridge the gap between science and policy.

Before joining the Gibbs Lab, Ian worked on global-scale urban mapping for the World Bank, contributing to the creation of an urban expansion atlas using MODIS data. He holds both a degree in International Studies Global Environment and a Master’s GIS certificate from the University of Wisconsin–Madison.

When Ian is not working, he enjoys spending time with his partner and their dog while exploring the great outdoors through biking, hiking, camping, or playing disc golf. He also likes keeping up with the latest in science, technology, and the environment.