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Graduate Students

Graduate students in Geography and Environmental Resources come from a variety of backgrounds and have diverse research and career interests. The graduate students below are currently working with faculty in Geography and Environmental Resources. They include students in the Geography and Environmental Resources M.S. program, as well as doctoral students from Environmental Resources and Policy (ERP) and Geosciences


Shadia Afrin

Shadia Afrin

Research Interests: Extreme weather events, regional weather patterns, sustainable development

Why SIU? Southern Illinois University Carbondale offers diverse academic programs including world renowned faculties, and a vibrant campus life. The caring faculty fosters a supportive environment for research, and academic growth.


Fisayo Akinde

Fisayo Akinde

Research Interests: Artificial intelligence and machine learning, hydrology, remote sensing and GIS

Why SIU? The high rate of Diversity, Inclusion and Equity. Reputable and Interdisciplinary Research. 


Bibek Ban

Bibek Ban

Research Interests: Applications of GIS and remote sensing in sustainable natural resource management, UAS-based mapping and monitoring, global change

Why SIU? Diverse research interest and expertise of faculty members along with departmental resources that has a lot to offer for students like me, friendly atmosphere among students and faculty members

Portia Carrera

Portia Carrera

Research Interests: Biogeography, environmental conservation

Why SIU? I chose SIU because of the welcoming and friendly community of the Geography and Environmental Resources department, and the beautiful campus!


Zachary Carter

Zachary Carter

Research Interests: Environmental psychology

Why SIU? A combination of faculty with knowledge and experience related to my research interests as well as the unique campus and local area.


Holly Chesney

Holly Chesney

Research Interests: Biogeography, environmental conservation, environmental justice

Why SIU? The opportunities for interdisciplinary study and an amazing location in Southern Illinois.


Michael Edidem

Michael Edidem

Research Interests: Geospatial artificial intelligence, remote sensing, smart cities, GIS

Why SIU? The high level of interdisciplinary research output of the faculty at SIU Geography.


Tara Giri

Tara Giri

Research Interests: Floodplain sedimentation

Why SIU? Prestigious University with broad research scope and friendly environment.


Anne Gill

Anne Gill

Research Interests: Environmental conservation, particularly human interactions with wildlife.

Why SIU? The wonderful faculty and program as well as the beautiful location


Jason Kane

Jason Kane

Research Interests: Environmental psychology, invasive species management, environmental conservation

Why SIU? I grew up in Southern Illinois, love the area, and received my undergraduate degree from SIU. Both the faculty and student community contribute to an exceptional learning environment.


Adizatu Mohammed.

Adizatu Mohammed.

Research Interests: Climate change, environmental sustainability, land use change

Why SIU? Because of the diversity in its student body and the high reputation of its research mentors.


Ope Rasaq-Balogun

Ope Rasaq-Balogun

Research Interests: Climate variability and change, extreme events, heat stress

Why SIU? The school's reputation for renowned higher education programs. I also love the diversity of the school.


Joshua Ruiz

Joshua Ruiz

Research Interests: Extreme weather, natural hazards, UAS technology, GIS

Why SIU?  The friendly and supportive faculty members coupled with the beautiful local area makes SIU a great place to continue my academic studies.


Shabik Zaheer

Shabik Zaheer

Research Interests: Climate change, GIS, environmental planning, disaster management, remote sensing, water–energy nexus, and digital twin technologies.

Why SIU? Southern Illinois University Carbondale offers strong academic programs and excellent facilities that help to enhance my research abilities and professional skills. Additionally, its highly experienced and supportive faculty members provide interdisciplinary research opportunities that enable me to reach my full potential.