Professor Gough earned his Ph.D. in Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences at McGill University, Montreal.  Upon completion of his doctorate in 1991, he joined the Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences at the University of Toronto Scarborough (UTSC), after a brief postdoctoral fellowship at the Canadian Climate Centre.  Professor Gough is a leading researcher of climate change in the Eastern Arctic, South-Western Ontario and Toronto; including studying climate change impact assessment, numerical ocean and climate modeling, and air quality.  Recently the Canadian Association of Geographers recognized him for Excellence in Teaching, and for Service to Geography, in addition to receiving numerous research funding awards.

Dr. Gough served as Vice-Principal Academic and Dean (UTSC) from July 1, 2016  to June 30, 2024, after serving as Interim Vice-Principal Academic and Dean, Vice-Dean Faculty, and Vice-Dean Graduate Education & Program Development. In addition to his roles in the VP Dean’s Office, Professor Gough served as Governor on U of T’s Governing Council’s Executive, and Elections’ Committees, as well as chairing UTSC’s Campus Council.  He has served on a variety of University committees, including: Joint Programs with Centennial College, Concurrent Teachers Education Program, and the Tri-campus Geography Council, in addition to teaching numerous graduate and undergraduate classes at both the UTSC and St. George campuses.