Andrew Jacobson

Andrew Jacobson is an Associate Professor of GIS & Conservation at Catawba College, affiliated with the Department of Environment & Sustainability and the Center for the Environment. His career bridges geospatial technology with wildlife conservation, focusing on species distribution in human-impacted landscapes.

• Education:
  • B.A. in Environmental Studies, St. Olaf College
  • M.E.M. in Environmental Management, Nicholas School of the Environment
  • Ph.D. in Geography, University College London

His research explores the intersection of GIS, drones, and carnivore conservation, particularly for species like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas in East Africa. He investigates how human activities fragment habitats and affect large carnivore populations, while developing geospatial workflows to enhance conservation assessments.

Recent publications highlight trends in species distribution modeling, biodiversity threat analysis, and policy critique. Notable topics include the limitations of the IUCN Red List, human-wildlife conflict in savannahs, and the role of geospatial tools in identifying low-impact zones for conservation.

At Catawba College, Jacobson collaborates with students, faculty, and local organizations to advance conservation science. He previously served as a Science and Geospatial Advisor to the National Geographic Society, prioritizing global wild places for protection.