Derek Morgan, Ph.D. Geography
I have a strong research interest in investigating new, and applying existing GIScience(geographic information science) approaches to resolve human problems that have a spatial dimension. In particular, GIScience approaches that interest me include the design and development of collaborative, interactive, and web-based GIS applications, but also extend to studies of map usability, spatio-temporal representation, and cartographic semiotics.
My dissertation, which I successfully defended in 2010, was funded by the National Science Foundation and investigated the challenge of cartographically representing crimes where mobility played an inherent role. The research objectives of this dissertation cut across studies of mobility in crime mapping, cartographic visualization, and time geography. The outcome of this project was a practical assessment of the cartographic usability and usefulness of 3D interactive time-geographic maps within the context of crime mapping.
I have taught both technical GIS courses (GIS Customization & Computer Cartography) and multiple sections of World Regional Geography. And while I greatly enjoy both teaching and researching, I have over thirteen years of professional information technology (including GIS) experience in both large academic, corporate and governmental industry settings. For instance, I have professional GIS experience in the development and implementation of projects as diverse as building a participatory GIS for Florida’s decennial redistricting efforts and developing a web prototype for hurricane property risk prediction. I believe that my professional background will greatly serve my career in academia.