Institutul De Geografie

The Institute of Geography (IGAR) of the Romanian Academy, located in Bucharest, with two branches (in Cluj-Napoca and Iaşi), is the main institution of fundamental and applied geographical research in Romania. It carries out integrated research in Geomorphology, Hydrology, Biogeography, Climatology, GIS Systems, Human Geography and Environmental Geography focusing on investigating the relationships between the components of the physical and biotic environment (relief, water, soil, vegetation and fauna) and of the social and economic milieu, as well as their spatial distribution in connection with global environmental change. Its expertise in studying man-environment relations (GIS-based integrated studies of natural and technological hazards; integrated studies of community vulnerability to extreme events etc.) has materialised in several national and international projects. The Institute´s activity focuses on branch studies (1) and integrated studies (2): 1. Branch studies involve Physical Geography (geomorphology, climatology, hydrology and biogeography) and Human Geography (geography of population and settlements, political geography, geography of land use, geography of industry and services); 2. Integrated studies, geographical services: • Geographical studies on the environment at national level or by geographical units; • Geographical studies of natural and technological risks; • Geographical studies for the elaboration of regional development policies; • Applied geographical research under contract with various institutions (territorial planning, urban and rural development).