Ana Cristina Do Nascimento Gonçalves

Ana is pursuing a PhD in Geography at the Institute of Geography and Spatial Planning (IGOT) - University of Lisbon, and is currently conducting part of her research in collaboration with Dr. Andrea Duane at the Safford Laboratory, UC-Davis.

Her research focuses on understanding how land use transitions and sociodemographic dynamics influence wildfire risk in Portugal. The project analyzes the relationships between land use changes over recent decades and wildfire hazard and exposure, while also investigating how sociodemographic trends influence the vulnerability of affected populations.

A key component of the research involves developing future scenarios through fire behavior simulations under varying land use patterns, combined with demographic projections and climate change scenarios. These models aim to identify transformations that increase wildfire risk and inform the development of mitigation and prevention strategies.  

During the research period at UC-Davis (Fall 2024), the focus is on advancing specific areas of the project, including fire behavior simulations and climate projections. This phase involves creating land use and cover scenarios, along with hazard and probability models, to assess wildfire risks in vulnerable areas. This research aims not only to contribute to more effective land management in reducing rural fire risk but also to develop adaptive strategies that enhance the resilience of communities and territories