Varatharajaperumal Thangavel is a GIS professional and Research Candidate in the Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geomatics Engineering at Florida Atlantic University (FAU). Since Spring 2024, he has been working as both a Research Assistant (RA) and Teaching Assistant (TA) at FAU. As an RA, he has made significant contributions to sponsored projects, including the NASA-funded “MAA Experiential Learning Opportunities for South Florida Underserved High School Students” and the NSF-funded multidisciplinary project, “Smart Integrated Sustainable Agricultural and Remote Farms with 5G Network for Navajo Nation Communities.” He is also actively involved in preparing research proposals.
Mr. Thangavel earned his B.E. in Civil Engineering from University College of Engineering, Panruti Campus, Anna University, Chennai, and his M.E. in Geomatics from the College of Engineering, Guindy Campus, Anna University, Chennai. He has over 12 years of professional experience, including approximately eight years of teaching experience. He has also worked as a Senior Technical Content Writer and Deputy Manager on GIS projects in India.
He has published research papers, presented at National & International conferences, and received several recognitions, including a mentorship certificate (Smart India Hackathon), championship and winner certificate (IITB-ISRO-AICTE Mapathon).
His research focuses on the application of Remote Sensing and GIS technologies in disaster management, water quality, land use, and agricultural sustainability, with particular interest in the analysis and prediction aspects of disaster management through geospatial technologies.
He emphasizes that sharing technology and expertise among professionals is vital for advancing sustainable agriculture, fostering collaboration and innovation to successfully overcome challenges.