Xiang Zhao (Zhao)

Xiang Zhao (Zhao) joined QCIF in 2024 as a Software Developer and R Specialist, focusing on maintaining and developing ecological algorithms for the EcoCommons Platform. 

During his MPhil at QUT, he utilized spatial mapping, modeling, statistics, and optimization algorithms to study historical biodiversity survey patterns in terrestrial Antarctica, proposing an optimal survey design for future research. At QUT, he also tutors in GIS and Environmental Planning units, leveraging his expertise in GIS and cartography.

Zhao spent two years traveling across Australia as a backpacker. Prior to this, he worked on a conservation project in Southwest China aimed at protecting giant panda habitats from the threat of free-ranging livestock. This project earned him the BirdLife International Young Conservation Leaders Award.

Research interests

• Spatial modelling and statistics

• Spatial autocorrelation

• Species distribution modelling

• Biodiversity survey design and monitoring

• GIS and cartography

Qualifications

• MPhil in Conservation Science, Queensland University of Technology (AU), 2024

• Bachelor of Engineering (environmental engineering), Dalian University of Technology (China), 2017