Picture this: You’re analyzing satellite imagery to track urban expansion patterns while simultaneously considering how this growth affects local communities and ecosystems. Think about the last time you used a navigation app – behind that technology are geographers who helped develop the spatial data systems making it possible.
Geographers are professionals who study the nature and use of areas of the Earth’s surface, relating and interpreting interactions of physical and cultural phenomena to solve complex problems related to population growth, climate change, and resource management. They combine traditional cartography with cutting-edge technology to understand spatial relationships and patterns.
They conduct research on physical aspects of a region, including land forms, climates, soils, plants, and animals, and conduct research on the spatial implications of human activities within a given area, including social characteristics, economic activities, and political organization.
Total Employment: 1,460 (2023)
Common Names for Geographers
- Earth Observations Scientist
- GIS Coordinator (Geographic Information Systems Coordinator)
- GIS Geographer (Geographic Information Systems Geographer)
- GIS Physical Scientist (Geographic Information Systems Physical Scientist)
- Geographer
- Scientist
What Geographers Do
Geographers analyze the relationship between human activity and Earth’s physical features. Key responsibilities include:
- Spatial Analysis: Examine geographic patterns and relationships between physical and human features to understand how location impacts various phenomena and inform decision-making.
- Data Collection: Gather geographic data through field observations, surveys, satellite imagery, and existing databases to create accurate representations of spatial information.
- Geographic Research: Conduct systematic studies of land features, populations, and natural resources to identify trends and patterns that influence human activity and environmental changes.
- Map Creation: Develop detailed maps and visual representations using geographic information systems (GIS) to communicate spatial data effectively to various stakeholders.
- Environmental Assessment: Analyze the interaction between human activity and natural environments to support sustainable development and resource management decisions.
- Population Studies: Research demographic patterns and population distributions to help organizations and governments plan services, infrastructure, and policies.
- Field Investigation: Conduct on-site studies to verify geographic data, collect samples, and document physical and cultural features for accurate reporting and analysis.
- Report Development: Create comprehensive reports and presentations that communicate geographic findings and recommendations to diverse audiences, from policymakers to the public.
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