Rate Professor Abbas Rajabifard

Professional Summary: Professor Abbas Rajabifard

Professor Abbas Rajabifard is a distinguished academic and leader in the field of geospatial information science at the University of Melbourne, Australia. With a career spanning over two decades, he is globally recognized for his contributions to spatial data infrastructure (SDI), smart cities, and sustainable urban development. His work bridges technology, policy, and societal needs, making significant impacts in disaster management, land administration, and urban planning.

Academic Background and Degrees

Professor Rajabifard holds advanced qualifications in geospatial sciences and engineering, reflecting his deep expertise in the field:

• PhD in Spatial Information Systems, University of Melbourne, Australia (2002)
• Master of Surveying and Mapping, University of Tehran, Iran
• Bachelor of Surveying Engineering, University of Tehran, Iran

Research Specializations and Academic Interests

Professor Rajabifard’s research focuses on the development and application of spatial data infrastructures to address complex global challenges. His key areas of interest include:

• Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI) design and implementation
• Smart cities and digital twins for urban planning
• Disaster management and resilience using geospatial technologies
• Land and property information systems
• Sustainable development and policy frameworks for geospatial data

Career History and Appointments

Professor Rajabifard has held numerous prestigious positions at the University of Melbourne and in international organizations:

• Professor and Head of Department, Infrastructure Engineering, University of Melbourne (ongoing)
• Director, Centre for Spatial Data Infrastructures and Land Administration (CSDILA), University of Melbourne
• President, Global Spatial Data Infrastructure (GSDI) Association (2016–2019)
• Chair, United Nations Global Geospatial Information Management (UN-GGIM) Academic Network (2018–ongoing)

Major Awards, Fellowships, and Honors

Professor Rajabifard’s contributions to geospatial science have been widely recognized through prestigious awards and honors:

• President’s Award, Global Spatial Data Infrastructure (GSDI) Association (2012)
• Fellow, Victorian Spatial Council, Australia
• Recognition for contributions to United Nations initiatives on geospatial information management

Key Publications

Professor Rajabifard has authored and co-authored numerous influential publications in the field of geospatial information science. Some notable works include:

• Spatial Data Infrastructures: Concept, Nature and SDI Hierarchy (2003) – Co-authored book
• Towards a Spatially Enabled Society (2007) – Edited book
• 'A framework for understanding the evolution of land administration systems in the digital era' – Journal Paper (2020)
• 'Smart and sustainable cities: A geospatial perspective' – Journal Article (2019)
• Over 200 peer-reviewed papers and technical reports on SDI, disaster management, and urban systems

Influence and Impact on Academic Field

Professor Rajabifard is a global leader in spatial data infrastructure and geospatial information management. His pioneering work on SDI frameworks has shaped national and international policies, enabling better decision-making in disaster response, urban planning, and sustainable development. Through his leadership in the UN-GGIM Academic Network and GSDI Association, he has fostered collaboration between academia, industry, and governments, amplifying the societal impact of geospatial technologies. His research on smart cities and digital twins is at the forefront of addressing urbanization challenges in the 21st century.

Public Lectures, Committees, and Editorial Contributions

Professor Rajabifard is actively involved in shaping the global geospatial community through various roles and contributions:

• Keynote speaker at numerous international conferences, including the UN-GGIM Forums and GSDI World Conferences
• Member of editorial boards for leading journals such as International Journal of Geographical Information Science
• Chair and member of international committees on geospatial standards and policies, including ISO/TC 211 (Geographic Information/Geomatics)
• Advisor to governments and organizations on spatial data strategies and smart city initiatives