Spatial Data Scientist & Policy Specialist
Evidence for better urban decisions
About me
I'm Ruth Nelson, a spatial data scientist and policy specialist. I hold a PhD in Spatial Data Science and Policy (TU Delft), alongside an MRes in Space Syntax (UCL) and a Master's in Architecture (Nelson Mandela University). I am the coordinator for all research related to Sailing within the Municipality of Amsterdam. The canals have shaped Amsterdam's city form, and today remain central to urban mobility. I work across teams to develop evidence-based policy by co-ordinating the development of data tools, dashboards, spatial models, and qualitative research. Balancing the needs of residents, tourism operators, freight logistics, and the city's long-term liveability goals requires translating between technical evidence and competing political priorities.
