John Cartwright

Title: Assistant Extension Professor
Time at GRI: 20 Years
Hometown: Tupelo, MS

Q: What is your academic background?
I hold a B.S. in Geosciences with an emphasis in Professional Geology. I earned my M.S. as a NOAA Graduate Research Fellow at the Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, where my work focused on applying geospatial technologies to watershed management. I completed my Ph.D. in Earth and Atmospheric Science at Mississippi State University.

Q: What are your research interests?
My primary research interest centers on applying geospatial technologies to enhance decision-making and management of both natural and built environments.

Q: Who inspired you to pursue the career you have today?
My academic journey has been nontraditional and shaped by many sources of inspiration. My wife and children have always been my greatest motivation, keeping me grounded and focused. I’ve also been fortunate to learn from mentors whose guidance and support have had a lasting impact on my personal and professional growth.

Q: What has been your favorite project while working at GRI?
I have really enjoyed working on numerous projects at GRI, it would be hard for me to pick just one, but my current favorite is the development of virtual environments for National Estuarine Research Reserves.

Q: What is the coolest thing you are working on right now?
Currently I am a member of a SNAPP (Science for Nature and People Partnership) Innovation Hub for Future Tidal Wetlands where we are mapping out where wetland corridor conservation will be most effective.

Q: What is something most people don’t know about you?
Prior to returning to college to finish my education I was as a professional photographer at a commercial studio.

Q: What kinds of hobbies and interests do you have outside of work?
I like anything I can do with my hands, from simple woodworking to cooking. If it gets me outside it is even better.