Isabella Hinks

Isabella "Izzi" Hinks serves as a Teaching Assistant Professor in the Computer Science Department at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She completed her Ph.D. in Geospatial Analytics at NC State University's Center for Geospatial Analytics in 2024, where she was advised by Dr. Josh Gray. Her academic journey began with dual B.Sc. degrees in Computer Science and Environmental Science, along with a minor in Statistics and Analytics, all earned at UNC Chapel Hill.

Dr. Hinks' research focuses on developing innovative algorithms to estimate the adaptive potential of small-scale agriculture in poverty-affected regions. Her work combines computer science expertise with environmental applications, particularly in using remote sensing technologies and deep learning techniques to monitor smallholder farming systems. She has made significant contributions to understanding how smallholder farmers can enhance their climate resilience through strategic adaptations, leveraging both satellite data and field observations.

Her publication record demonstrates a consistent focus on applying advanced computational methods to agricultural monitoring challenges. The most recent articles show a progression from basic field boundary mapping using deep learning toward more sophisticated analyses of climate adaptation impacts on smallholder resilience. Her work increasingly integrates multiple data sources, including satellite imagery, household surveys, and on-the-ground measurements, to create comprehensive assessment frameworks for agricultural systems in developing regions.

Among her notable recognitions is the Gladys West Award from the Center for Geospatial Analytics' fourth annual CGA Awards, received in January 2023. Her research on deep learning-based smallholder field delineation was featured in an NC State University News article in April 2023, highlighting the practical significance of her work.

Dr. Hinks has been actively involved in several research initiatives, including work with the RESCuE Consortium in Thailand monitoring coastal ecosystem rehabilitation and supporting underserved communities during the Covid-19 pandemic through Curamericas Global. She was also a founding member of Acta Solutions, a tech start-up focused on helping local governments optimize decisions using constituent data. Her presentations at major conferences like the AGU Fall Meeting demonstrate her growing prominence in the field of geospatial analytics for agricultural applications.