Yong Lao

Yong Lao is a Professor in the Department of Social Sciences and Global Studies. His research focuses on Geographic Information Systems (GIS), quantitative methods, transportation planning, and economic geography with emphasis on China/Asia. He holds a Ph.D. in Geography from Ohio State University (1993).

Education:

• Ph.D. in Geography, Ohio State University, 1993

Research Interests:

• GIS applications in transportation and emergency planning
• Spatial analysis for public policy and social services
• Economic geography of China and East Asia
• Data-driven transportation optimization

Publications emphasize GIS integration with real-world challenges such as disaster response, public transit efficiency, and hazardous material management. Articles span 1997–2015, showcasing longitudinal contributions to geospatial technologies in societal applications.