Dr. Juan Saldarriaga

Build a Statement of Purpose

Generate a tailored SOP for Dr. Juan Saldarriaga. Improve your application with a focused, well-structured draft.

Biography

Juan Francisco Saldarriaga is a Senior Computational Designer at Google, where he works primarily on Google Earth. His expertise lies in data-driven design, leveraging tools like Geographic Information Systems (GIS), visualization techniques, and artificial intelligence to solve intricate urban challenges. Saldarriaga has also contributed as a research scholar at Columbia University’s Brown Institute for Media Innovation, where he led design-centric research initiatives. In addition to his role at Google, he serves as a Visiting Critic at Cornell University, conducting workshops and seminars that focus on advanced GIS, data visualization, and urban planning. His academic background includes a Master of Architecture and a Master of Science in Urban Planning from Columbia University, alongside a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from Universidad de Los Andes. Saldarriaga has received several accolades, including the 2020 Journalism 360 Challenge Winner and various grants for his groundbreaking work in the intersection of technology and urbanism.

Research Interests

Experience

Senior Computational Designer

— Present

Google • New York, USA

Juan Francisco Saldarriaga currently works on Google Earth as a Senior Computational Designer, specializing in data-driven design using GIS and visualization to address complex urban challenges.

Visiting Critic

— Present

Cornell University • Ithaca, NY, USA

Saldarriaga teaches graduate-level workshops and seminars in mapping, advanced GIS, and data visualization at Cornell University.

Research Scholar

— Present

Columbia University's Brown Institute for Media Innovation • New York, USA

Led data design research at the Brown Institute for Media Innovation.

Architectural Designer

— Present

Carlos Zapata Studio / D.G.T. Architects • New York, USA

Worked as an architectural designer focusing on urban planning projects.

Requirements for Cornell University

Master Program
Requirements
TOEFL
Listening
Required:15
Reading
Required:20
Writing
Required:20
Speaking
Required:22
Total
Required:100
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Architecture or related field
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Portfolio (SlideRoom)
  • Academic Statement of Purpose
  • Personal Statement
  • Transcripts
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

Department of Architecture