Karen Seto

Professor Karen Seto is a distinguished scholar with expertise in urbanization and global change, currently serving at the Geography University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA. Her pioneering research delves into the intricacies of urban expansion and urban land-use dynamics, utilizing satellite data to forecast and understand the implications of urban growth. With a career spanning over two decades, Professor Seto has concentrated her efforts on the rapidly urbanizing regions of China and India, providing invaluable insights into the patterns and consequences of urbanization in these areas. In addition to her academic endeavors, Professor Seto has played a significant role in global environmental policy. She has served as a Coordinating Lead Author for the urban mitigation chapters of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Fifth and Sixth Assessment Reports. Her contributions have been instrumental in shaping international understanding and strategies for urban mitigation in the context of climate change. Professor Seto's work is recognized and respected worldwide, as evidenced by her election as a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. Her membership in the U.S. National Academy of Sciences further underscores her status as a leading authority in her field. Her research not only advances academic knowledge but also informs practical approaches to managing urban growth sustainably. At the Geography University of Pennsylvania, Professor Seto is dedicated to mentoring the next generation of geographers and urban scientists. Her commitment to education and research excellence is reflected in her role as a Senior Associate Dean for Research, where she fosters an environment of innovation and collaboration. Through her extensive body of work, Professor Seto continues to influence both academic circles and policy-making arenas, advocating for sustainable urban development practices that consider the complex interplay between urbanization and global environmental change. Her contributions remain pivotal in addressing the challenges posed by rapid urban expansion in the 21st century.