Prof. Haowen Yan, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, China
Prof. Haowen Yan is a distinguished scholar in Geographic Information Science, serving as Professor and Dean of the GIS Department at Lanzhou Jiaotong University, China. With dual Ph.D. degrees from the University of Waterloo, Canada, and Wuhan University, China, he has made significant contributions to geospatial research. His expertise spans automated map generalization, spatial relations, and geovisualization. Prof. Yan has held visiting positions at prestigious institutions like Old Dominion University, USA, and the University of Waterloo, Canada. His groundbreaking research in spatial data watermarking has led to patented innovations. Recognized with national awards, including the National Innovative and Leading Talents in Science and Technology, he continues to advance GIS applications through pioneering methodologies and interdisciplinary collaborations.
🌍 Professional Profile
Google Scholar
🏆 Suitability for Best Researcher Award
Prof. Haowen Yan’s prolific contributions to Geographic Information Science make him a prime candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His research spans spatial relations, map generalization, and geovisualization, significantly advancing geospatial analytics. As a leading expert in spatial data security, his patented blind watermarking technique enhances geospatial data protection. He has received prestigious accolades, including China’s National Innovative and Leading Talents award, reflecting his impact on scientific progress. With extensive international collaborations and leadership in GIS education, Prof. Yan has mentored emerging scholars while shaping the future of geospatial research. His work exemplifies innovation, rigor, and practical applications, making him a deserving recipient of this distinguished recognition.
🎓 Education
Prof. Haowen Yan holds two Ph.D. degrees: one in Geography from the University of Waterloo, Canada (2014), and another in Cartography and Geographic Information Engineering from Wuhan University, China (2002). His academic journey began with an M.Sc. in Cartography and Geographic Information Engineering from Wuhan Technical University of Surveying and Mapping (1996). His Ph.D. research at the University of Waterloo, under Prof. Jonathan Li, focused on spatial similarity relations and automated map generalization, while his dissertation at Wuhan University explored formal models of spatial direction relations. His multidisciplinary training in GIS, spatial data analysis, and geovisualization has positioned him as a leading researcher in the field, contributing to technological advancements in geospatial sciences.
💼 Experience
Prof. Haowen Yan has an extensive career in Geographic Information Science, spanning academia and research leadership. Since 2015, he has served as Professor and Dean of the GIS Department at Lanzhou Jiaotong University. He was a visiting professor at Old Dominion University, USA, in 2014-2015 and a research fellow at the University of Waterloo, Canada. His expertise in automated map generalization, spatial analysis, and GIS applications has led to impactful research and teaching. With a strong foundation in international collaboration, he has significantly contributed to spatial data security through fingerprinting and watermarking innovations. His leadership in GIS education, combined with hands-on research experience, solidifies his reputation as a global authority in geospatial science.
🏅 Awards & Honors
Prof. Haowen Yan has received numerous prestigious accolades for his contributions to GIS research. In 2018, he was recognized as a Leading Talent in Science and Technology (First Level) in Gansu Province, China. He was selected for China’s National 10,000 Talents Plan in 2016, acknowledging his leadership in scientific innovation. In 2015, he was named an Excellent Teacher at Lanzhou Jiaotong University. His contributions to national technological advancement were further recognized in 2015 and 2016 with the National Innovative and Leading Talents in Science and Technology awards from China’s Ministry of Science and Technology. These honors highlight his pioneering work in geospatial sciences and his lasting impact on GIS research and education.
🔬 Research Focus
Prof. Haowen Yan’s research spans multiple domains in Geographic Information Science, focusing on automated map generalization, spatial relations, and geovisualization. He has pioneered spatial data fingerprinting and watermarking, ensuring geospatial data integrity and security. His work in We-Map, Machine Learning, and GIS applications has advanced geospatial analytics, making mapping systems more intelligent and efficient. He also explores spatial data modeling, enhancing decision-making in urban planning and environmental management. His interdisciplinary research integrates AI and GIS, improving geospatial data processing for smart cities. His patented innovations in geospatial data protection and machine learning-driven mapping techniques continue to shape the future of digital cartography and spatial analysis.
📊 Publication Top Notes
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Automated building generalization based on urban morphology and Gestalt theory
- Citations: 285
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Year: 2004
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Impact Assessment of COVID-19 on Variations of SO₂, NO₂, CO and AOD over East China
- Citations: 178
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Year: 2020
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Impact of COVID-19 lockdown on air quality in Poland, Eastern Europe
- Citations: 132
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Year: 2021
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A multi-parameter approach to automated building grouping and generalization
- Citations: 119
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Year: 2008
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An algorithm for point cluster generalization based on the Voronoi diagram
- Citations: 115
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Year: 2008