My research focuses on practical applications of spatial models, joining amenity and location theory with applied GIS and simulation methods to explore the complexity and dynamic processes of urban systems for environmental planning, urban design, and sustainable development.

Building upon research across disciplines on innovative methods, I study the impact of amenity on urban growth and the built environment to help understand location choices and the dynamics of growth and decline. To advance this research I have been working in a rapid development area which draws on planning and computing as well as several other related fields to develop strategies for sustainably managing smart urban community growth and change. I have played a key role in several funded research projects totaling several million dollars, working with researchers representing various disciplines and types of organizations across Colorado, Utah, and New York.

Dr. Yin's research focuses on computer technology applications in a wide variety of urban growth issues and inner city redevelopment. She is interested in exploring new tools which enable high level of visualization, simulations, 3-D modeling, and database management to construct scenarios and evaluate alternatives to facilitate better communication and increase the efficiency in the planning process.

• Ph.D., University of Colorado, Design and Planning
• M.S., Asian Institute of Technology, Bangkok, Thailand, Urban Planning, Land and Housing Development
• B.S., Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, P.R.China, Architecture
  

Dr. Yin's teaching portfolio reflects her concentration on technological applications in the field of urban and regional planning. She teaches three classes: an undergraduate course, Computing for Environmental Analysis; and two graduate electives, GIS Applications and Planning Support System and Advanced GIS.

Dr. Yin actively engages in public service focusing on public health and the built environment in the Buffalo-Niagara Region.