Research IT

image of a coastline taken from space by NASA

Launch of new GIS, Mapping and Earth Observation Community

Join us in launching a new Computation and Data in Research (CaDiR) community! The GIS, Mapping and Earth Observation (GISMEO) community aims to facilitate innovative and interdisciplinary use of geospatial methodologies and technologies through building a dedicated, university-wide geospatial community.


Geospatial technology at Manchester

The University of Manchester is renowned for its innovative application of geospatial technology. To build on the University's capability and creativity in this area an interdisciplinary Geographical Information Systems, Mapping and Earth Observation (GISMEO) community of practice has been created. The group is guided by leading experts in the fields of GIS, Mapping and Earth Observation. The group leaders are:

  • Dr. Gail Millin-Chalabi (Research IT – Project Manager & Co-I Researcher in GISc)
  • Ms. Donna Sherman (University Library – Curator of Maps)
  • Dr. Polyanna Bispo (Senior Lecturer in Physical Geography)

The community provides a platform for members to engage with both internal and external experts, facilitates peer learning, networking, and problem-solving. Our members also benefit from greater visibility of career opportunities in the sector.

Open to all within the University, including academics, students, Professional Services, and technicians, the community is a welcoming space for everyone interested in geospatial technology, from novice to seasoned experts.


The launch event

We see exciting potential in the geospatial field and invite the curious to join us and learn more about this fascinating discipline at our first group meeting, during the meeting we will:

  • Introduce the group leaders and their areas of expertise.
  • Provide an opportunity to suggest areas you would like to see covered in future GISMEO group meetings.
  • Educate about the licensing changes which will go live on 1 August 2024 for the Esri Software Stack ArcGIS Online and ArcGIS Pro.

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You can also join the Computation and Data in Research (CaDiR) Teams space here if you’re not a member yet!

If you have any questions, suggestions, or would like to get involved behind the scenes, please don't hesitate to email me – our team would love to hear from you!