Ho Yi Wan

Dr. Ho Yi Wan is an Associate Professor in the Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation at the University of Florida and Director of the Landscape Ecology, Informatics, and Artificial Intelligence (LEIA) Lab. His work integrates landscape ecology, spatial modeling, artificial intelligence, and conservation science to understand how wildlife, people, and changing landscapes interact across scales.

His research develops computational approaches for modeling habitat, connectivity, biodiversity patterns, human–wildlife conflict, and environmental change. A major focus of his current work is making advanced spatial analysis more accessible through AI-powered tools such as Spatchat, a zero-coding natural language platform for spatial modeling. Across his research, teaching, and mentorship, Dr. Wan emphasizes reproducible science and practical tools that support conservation decision-making.