Prof Michael Gebreslasie is a Geographer whose expertise lies in Geographic Information Sciences (GIS), Earth Observation (EO), and Environmental change monitoring. He obtained a BA Geography degree (space and health specialization) from the University of Asmara, Eritrea. This was followed by an MSc Applied Environmental Science degree with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote sensing specialization from University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Prof Gebreslasie then completed his PhD Geography degree at University of KwaZulu-Natal. This degree focused on testing, improving tools and methods for prediction of biophysical, biochemical, and canopy structural characteristics such as Leaf Area Index (LAI), Tree height, Basal area, Tree density, and Biomass using multi-spectral and multi-angle optical and active remote sensing. Better prediction of these characteristics is a key to sustainable management of forest ecosystem.
Prof Gebreslasie's research interest is contextualized to the operational application of Geographic Information Sciences (GIS), Earth Observation (EO) Remote Sensing, so they become relevant in improving the socio-economic and environmental well-being of present society by providing reliable spatial information for informed decision making. He also teaches Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing subjects at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
