Daoqin Tong is an Associate Professor in the School of Geography and Development at the University of Arizona. Dr. Tong received her MS in Civil Engineering, MAS in Statistics, and Ph.D. in Geography from the Ohio State University. Dr. Tong’s research has mainly focused on the use of spatial analytics including spatial optimization, geographic information systems, big data and spatial statistics to support urban and regional studies. Her specific research interests include urban activity-travel and mobility, food access, and renewable energy planning. Dr. Tong’s recent study on food deserts provides important insights into the distribution of various urban food outlets and the inconsistency of research findings concerning food access.