M. Pena Acosta

Dr. M. Pena Acosta is an Assistant Professor specializing in urban climate studies, with a focus on mitigating the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect through data-driven modeling and geospatial analysis. Their work bridges engineering, climate science, and sustainable urban planning.

• Education: Master and Bachelor degrees from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST).

Their research investigates microclimate dynamics in cities like Málaga and the Netherlands, emphasizing drought and heat infrastructure resilience. Key methodologies include data assimilation, comparative analysis, and generalizability assessments of UHI models.

Recent publications explore street-level temperature monitoring, Mediterranean climate adaptation, and novel tools for integrating UHI mitigation into urban planning. Their work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly climate action and sustainable cities.

• Scientific Award: Best Paper Award (2022 ISARC) for contributions to automation and robotics in construction-related climate resilience.

Dr. Acosta’s collaborations span institutions like Delft University of Technology and Universidad de Málaga, with datasets on thermal measurements in Málaga (2024). Media engagements include expert commentary on extreme urban heat solutions.