Frances Leung

Frances Leung

Title/Position
PhD Student
Dr. Yuhong He, supervisor

Research and Professional Interests

My research employs remote sensing technology and geospatial analysis to investigate urban vegetation changes, land use dynamics and the role of green infrastructure in fostering adaptable and environmentally resilient cities.

With over a decade of corporate advisory experience, I have supported leading organizations across public and private sectors in driving data-driven decision making, streamlining digital transformation efforts, and enhancing risk management strategies. With a focus on improving operational efficiency and mitigating environmental risks, I bring an interdisciplinary perspective that bridges theory and practice to deliver impactful solutions for both academia and businesses.

Beyond my research work, I am committed to community engagement through sustainable gardening education. I regularly deliver public horticulture workshops and presentations, fostering environmental stewardship and connecting people with nature.

Why Geography, Geomatics and Environment at UTM?

As an avid gardener, I have a personal passion for using plants as a medium to create aesthetically pleasing spaces that promote mental health and well-being. As a data science practitioner, I enjoy delving into datasets to find patterns and extract insights. GGE at UTM enables me to combine these two things that I enjoy and make scientific discoveries.

Honours and Awards

  • 2025-2026 – The Griffith Taylor Scholarship in Geography
  • 2024-2025 – Department of Geography and Planning, Graduate Program Recruitment Award
  • 2001-2002 – General Motors Women in Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Award

Presentations

  • Leung, F. (2025, July). Investigating the spatial-temporal patterns of green roofs with remote sensing [Conference presentation]. Barcelona. Livable Cities — The Urban Experience: From Social Policy to Design (Online), AMPS (Architecture, Media, Politics, Society).
Education
PhD (In progress), Geography, Geomatics & Environment, University of Toronto
MIDS, Information & Data Science, University of California, Berkeley
MBA, York University
BASc, Mechanical Engineering, University of Toronto

Research

Research Supervisor / Mentor
Dr. Yuhong He