Teaching Program and Philosophy

My teaching and research focus on Quantitative Forest Ecology, integrating advanced statistical and spatial methods with cutting-edge remote sensing technologies, geographic information systems (GIS), and artificial intelligence (AI). I train students to leverage these tools for rigorous analysis and modeling of forest ecosystem structure, function, and dynamics across diverse spatial and temporal scales.

In an era shaped by geospatial data and advanced analytics, students must develop strong statistical reasoning, data analysis, and computational skills to solve complex environmental problems. My teaching program equips students with the quantitative, methodological, and computational skills needed to analyze large datasets—from processing LiDAR and satellite imagery to applying spatial statistics for ecological modeling and decision-making.

Core Teaching Objectives

• Prepare students for careers in statistics, data analytics, remote sensing, and natural resources.
• Strengthen critical thinking and problem-solving using data-driven inquiry.
• Foster an inclusive, interactive, and inquiry-based learning environment.

I emphasize hands-on engagement using ArcGIS, R, and spatial-statistics tools so students can connect theory with applications in areas such as forest carbon monitoring, biodiversity assessment, and ecosystem modeling.

I have taught Forest Resource Information Systems (FRIS) during Summer B for two consecutive years at the School of Forest, Fisheries, and Geomatics Sciences (SFFGS), University of Florida, to both undergraduate and graduate students. This experience has reinforced my commitment to integrating statistical and spatial analytical methods into forestry, remote sensing, and natural resource education.

Teaching Philosophy

Effective teaching blends rigor, relevance, and inclusivity. My approach integrates statistical theory with practical applications, enabling students to understand both the methods and the contexts in which they are most effective. I encourage collaborative problem-solving, peer-to-peer learning, and open discussion, while mentoring students in professional development, including research, conference presentations, and scientific writing.

Teaching Experience & Outreach

• University of Florida (2024–present) — Instructor for FRIS, Ph.D. committee member, 4-H Forest Ecology outreach, and K–12 engagement.
• Federal University of São João del-Rei, Brazil (2019–2022) — Associate Professor teaching Tropical Forest Management, Technical Drawing, Forest Operations, and Scientific Methodology & Writing.
• Workshops — Short courses on R programming, spatial statistics, and NASA GEDI LiDAR applications.
• Mentorship — Supervised undergraduate and graduate research, supported students in manuscript writing and conference participation.