Forest Engineer and Researcher

Integrating Nature with
Spatial Intelligence

Associate Professor specializing in Remote Sensing, GIS, and Forest Monitoring to solve complex ecological challenges.

Areas of Expertise

Remote Sensing and UAV

Advanced analysis using UAV imagery and LiDAR data. Expert in Google Earth Engine and land cover dynamics monitoring.

GIS and Spatial Analysis

Director of GIS and Remote Sensing Center. Extensive knowledge of ArcGIS Pro, spatial modeling, and decision support systems.

Forest Management

Sustainable forest planning, biodiversity management, and ecological impact analysis based on international standards.

Short Bio

I am the Head of the Department of Nature Conservation and Biodiversity Management and an Associate Professor at Kastamonu University, where I also direct the GIS and Remote Sensing Research and Application Center.

My studies focus on geospatial technologies, environmental monitoring, and sustainable land and forest management.

I received my B.S. from Zonguldak Karaelmas University and completed my M.S. in Forest and Natural Resources at Clemson University (South Carolina, USA). During my master's research, I examined riparian buffer zones and water quality using LiDAR data. I earned my Ph.D. in Forestry at Kastamonu University, where I analyzed Türkiye's land cover changes over the past 30 years across phytogeographical regions.

As a Visiting Scientist at Texas A&M University, I conducted research on NASA's ICESat-2 spaceborne LiDAR system, focusing on the characterization of forest structure and land cover. I continue to work with LiDAR, remote sensing, and environmental datasets, leading large-scale projects such as the Kastamonu Virtual Forest Project, which develops high-resolution 3D forest models for research and education.

Throughout my roles as an academic researcher, I am committed to developing innovative, data-driven solutions that support nature conservation, biodiversity, and sustainable resource management.

Emre Akturk PhD