Robert South

Dr. Robert South is an Associate Professor in the Department of Geography at the University of Cincinnati, where he has served since 1976. He has held leadership roles including Department Head (1987-2000), Director of Graduate Studies (1981-1985), and Director of Undergraduate Studies (1972-1980). His academic career includes a Ph.D. in Geography from the University of Maryland (1972), M.A. in Geography from Indiana University (1965), and B.A. in Geology from Indiana University (1961). He also studied at the National University of Mexico (1958).

His research focuses on economic geography, regional development in Latin America, industrial location patterns, and the impacts of environmental policy. Notable work includes studies on Mexico’s maquiladora industry, Bolivia’s commodity flows, and NAFTA’s economic effects. He has conducted fieldwork in Bolivia, Chile, and Mexico, including roles as a Peace Corps Volunteer (Chile, 1961-1963) and Fulbright Scholar (Mexico, 1985-1986).

Dr. South has secured over $1.4M in grants, including federal funding for projects like the NASA OhioView initiative (2000) and Department of the Army SCAN-1 collaboration (2008-2011). His consulting work spans environmental impact assessments for firms like AMAX Corporation and FMC Corporation, as well as advising U.S. companies on industrial location strategies in Mexico.

He has organized international field trips to Mexico’s Yucatán and Cuba, emphasizing experiential learning. His awards include the Canadian Studies Program Award (1977) and National Science Foundation support for training and research. He actively participates in professional organizations like the Association of American Geographers and Conference of Latin Americanist Geographers.