Spatially detailed population data products in grid-based format have become increasingly abundant in recent years, contribute to a range of geospatial applications. One application is assessing population exposure to geohazards, by extracting gridded population estimates co-located with potential hazard occurrence zones. Working with collaborators in Peru, this project will use gridded population products to assess exposure to glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs). Across the wider Andes region, potential for GLOFs is increasing, but also comparatively under-studied. Peru has a high number of glacial lakes of concern posing danger to substantial downstream populations.
The project is organised into two main stages. For Stage 1, the focus is on comparing GLOF exposure estimates obtained using different gridded population products – an important first step since gridded products have differing characteristics, with different inputs and methods. Such comparisons provide a basis for evaluating relative data quality aspects, informing choice and appropriate use of specific products.
In Stage 2, attention turns to knowledge exchange with the GLOF risk management policy community in Peru, focussed on sharing key messages from the Stage 1 assessment approach and results, and on gaining stakeholder perspective on the utility of the approach and associated benefits and challenges and development potential.
Through completing these stages, the project should overall contribute new insights on the utility of gridded population products for geohazard risk assessment and risk management.
The project is interdisciplinary, drawing together Geddes’s expertise in geospatial analysis and modelling involving population datasets, and in wider social research, and Cook’s expertise in glacial processes and long-standing links to Peru.
Reflecting the varying activities required to complete the project, potential applicants must feel comfortable developing knowledge and skill across multiple topics, including:
- geospatial data acquisition and data management
- geospatial data disaggregation and data integration
- statistical analysis
- characteristics and dynamics of physical processes in glaciated high mountain environments
- stakeholder mapping and interviewing
- policy analysis
- discourses on climate-related risk and risk management and related concepts (vulnerability, resilience).
Proficiency in written and spoken Spanish is desirable but not essential.
In Peru, major project stakeholders include the national disaster risk agency (CENEPRED), regional authorities undertaking GLOF risk assessments, and non-government disaster preparation and response organisations.
Peru-based climate and anticipatory action specialists in the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre are key collaborators for this project. They will facilitate stakeholder access and should be able to provide some in-country support.
Supervisory Team:
- First Supervisor: Dr Alistair Geddes, A.Y.Geddes@dundee.ac.uk
- Second Supervisor: Dr Simon Cook, s.y.cook@dundee.ac.uk
