Thomas Gillespie

Thomas Gillespie is a Professor and Co-Chair of the Environmental Science and Engineering (D.Env.) Program at the Department of Geography, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). His research integrates Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and biogeography to study tropical dry forests in biodiversity hotspots and develop predictive models for species distribution and conservation.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Geography, UCLA (1998)
• M.A. in Geography and Planning, California State University, Chico (1994)
• B.A. in International Affairs, University of Colorado, Boulder (1990)

Research Interests:
Gillespie’s work focuses on field-based floristic surveys and remote sensing analysis of tropical dry forests across the Pacific, Caribbean, and California. He combines GIS with ecological data to model biodiversity patterns, anthropogenic disturbance impacts, and climate change scenarios. His research spans biogeography, conservation science, and environmental policy.

Scientific Awards:

• NASA Earth and Space Science Fellowship

Grants:
Gillespie has secured major grants from the National Science Foundation (NSF), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), National Institutes of Health (NIA, NICHD), and MacArthur Foundation for projects on urban greening, disaster recovery, and tropical forest conservation.