DoctorLukas Marek

I received my PhD in 2015 from the Department of Geoinformatics at Palacky University in the Czech Republic. In my thesis, I conducted research on spatial and spatiotemporal analysis of Campylobacteriosis in the Czech Republic. My main research interest is currently focused on geovisualisation and spatial analyses of health data using spatial and spatiotemporal modelling, and spatial statistics.

I like the interdisciplinary character of Geography and GIS allowing me to work on various projects in completely different fields. So far, I've been using my skills in projects in areas of geohealth, smart cities, landslide monitoring, urban studies, crowdsourcing, mapping, forestry, social networks, archaeology etc. I also have experience in teaching - mostly spatial analysis and geostatistics.

My research is driven by the idea that integrating Spatial Data Science and (health) geography can transform public health interventions and improve population health and well-being outcomes. As part of the Te Taiwhenua o te Hauora | GeoHealth Laboratory, I am investigating complex relationships between environmental, social, and spatial factors that affect human health and well-being. I am employing advanced computational methods and statistical tools to analyse and interpret a range of traditional and geospatial datasets to uncover spatial patterns and relationships relevant to public health issues. This often includes whole-population studies utilising spatially augmented large datasets and linked individual-level (micro)data as well as communicating complex results in a clear, engaging, and impactful way using static, dynamic and interactive (spatial) data visualisations and graphics to inform decision-making and public understanding.

My research focuses on three interconnected key themes:

1) Understanding the environmental and social determinants of health and well-being outcomes on multiple scales;
2) Developing and utilising (spatial) models to better understand whole-population health-related characteristics and associations;
3) Studying health and wellbeing disparities to inform policies and interventions aimed at reducing health inequities.