dr. C (Confidence) Duku

I am a multidisciplinary research scientist working at the intersection of climate, water, food systems, and ecosystems. My research focuses on answering critical questions that address the pressing challenges of our time:

• How is the climate evolving, and what are the key indicators of change?
• What are the tangible impacts of climate change on food production, water resources, and ecosystem health?
• How effective are adaptation strategies and nature-based solutions in mitigating climate risks?

By combining geospatial data, big data analytics, and cutting-edge machine/deep learning techniques, I develop models and simulations that offer quantitative insights into crop growth, hydrology, and ecosystem services. My goal is to provide detailed, actionable information to foster resilient food systems, sustainable watersheds, and thriving ecosystems.

Currently, I am engaged in projects across the Netherlands, South America and across the length and breadth of Africa. These projects address climate risk in a variety of socio-ecological contexts, offering region-specific solutions and frameworks to support climate adaptation and sustainable development.

Previous Experience:

• Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Geospatial Data Science for Environmental Systems Analysis at Wageningen University, where I contributed to innovative climate and environmental models.
• Project Consultant and GIS & Environmental Modeling Specialist at the Africa Rice Center (part of the CGIAR consortium) in Benin and Côte d'Ivoire, focusing on the use of GIS for optimizing agricultural practices and improving food security in Africa.

Academic Background:
I hold a Doctorate in Environmental Systems Analysis from Wageningen University and a Master’s in GIS & Environmental Modeling from the University of Hull, UK.