Lynn Fanikiso

I started my tertiary education with a degree in Earth and environmental science from Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST). I took a liking to geoinformatics and pursued it further with an Honours degree in Geographic Information Systems and later Geomatics at the masters level through the University of Cape Town.

I am passionate about applying remote sensing specifically in natural sciences and across different landscapes. I have conducted research in contexts such as coastal erosión, vegetation phenology, flood extent modelling and crop modelling. Most recently I worked as a GIS data technician in wildlife conservation where I focused on modelling environmental variables that affect large predator occupancy; land use modelling through the Land Use Conflict Identification Strategy (LUCIS) as well as the use of GIS tools to capture indigenous community knowledge towards establishing human-wildlife coexistence projects in the Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA).

It led to an awareness of spatial ecology concepts and thus my current pursuit of a doctorate in terrestrial ecology through CREAF under the expertise of the GRUMETS research team.

My goal is to be a remote sensing expert, I believe it is my most creative and innovative contribution towards environmental conservation. My current research allows for the intersection of data, policy and implementation through the development of geoservices that facilitate the transfer of cartographic information seamlessly. This will influence administrative environmental decision-making, land use planning and management at local and regional scales.

Beyond my work, I am an appreciator of creative arts such the theatre, museums and especially music. I enjoy cooking, swimming, playing tennis, doing yoga and am an avid follower of pop culture.