The Bronx Community College (BCC) Geospatial Center of the CUNY CREST Institute (BGCCCI) has been awarded a $300,000 research grant from NASA to study climate change drivers in urban areas, with a focus on the impact of Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) change and Urban Decision Support Systems.

The project will be led by Dr. Sunil Bhaskaran, Professor of Chemistry, Earth and Environmental Sciences, who founded the Center in 2014 and has spearheaded multiple NASA and NSF-funded initiatives. Under his leadership, BCC students will gain hands-on research experience, train through internships, and develop workforce-ready skills in the rapidly growing field of Geospatial Science and Artificial Intelligence.

“This grant will greatly enhance our program, offering students the chance to build research skills, participate in internships, and engage in interdisciplinary learning,” said Dr. Bhaskaran. “It also will strengthen our collaborations across BCC’s departments and expand our partnerships with industry, government, and academic institutions.”

The award supports the Geospatial Center’s mission to empower students and educators across the K–16 continuum through inclusive, interdisciplinary education and experiential training.

“We believe this grant will be transformative,” said BCC President Dr. Larry Johnson. “It moves our state-of-the-art Geospatial Computing Center one step closer to becoming a global hub for climate change research—right here in the Bronx. We are committed to charting clear career pathways in geospatial science, promoting equity and access, and shaping the next generation of professionals tackling global challenges.”

Dr. Bhaskaran is a recognized authority in Geospatial Technology and Environmental Sciences with more than 25 years of academic and industry experience. His expertise includes advanced satellite image analysis, object-based and per-pixel processing, and machine learning applications for disaster management, urban planning, and climate change research. He has led and successfully implemented NASA [2018-2022] and United States NSF projects [2016-2023] in the past. He is a United States Fulbright Specialist for the 2025-2028 period.

About the BCC Geospatial Center of the CUNY CREST Institute

Founded in 2014, the BGCCCI is dedicated to advancing geospatial education and research, offering students real-world experience in satellite imagery, mapping, and environmental monitoring. The Center partners with institutions and organizations worldwide to prepare students for careers in emerging STEM fields. The Center’s decadal contributions are encapsulated in its recently published “Decadal Report.”

• BronxTimes