dr. M (Maryam) Ghodsvali

Dr. Maryam Ghodsvali, Assistant Professor at the Laboratory of Geo-Information Science and Remote Sensing at Wageningen University, specialized in spatial urban dynamics modelling and the development of GIS-based decision support systems.

She holds an MSc in Geo-information Science and Earth Observation with CumLaude distinction from Twente University and earned her PhD from Eindhoven University of Technology, awarded the best department-wide thesis prize, on synergies among urban social and ecological systems and the development of an integrated spatial-based decision support system to promote systemic urban planning decisions.

Her research focuses on developing decision-support systems and tools that help guide societal transitions toward a sustainable future. This involves using various spatial analysis methods, including spatial multi-objective optimization, multi-criteria decision analysis, and spatial probabilistic graphical models for a systematic assessment of physical, social, economic and environmental factors in such a way as to assist urban planners and decision-makers in choosing solutions that enhance the ability of spaces to adapt to potential changes, ensure sustainability, and meet the needs of the society. Central to this is the engagement of multiple disciplines, stakeholders, and perspectives. She employs serious gaming to translate model outcomes into accessible knowledge and to provide a collaborative platform that simplifies decision-making.