Frequently Asked Questions about USGS Professional Pages

1. What is the objective of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Professional Pages?
2. If I have a specific question about science research, how do I go about finding a scientist involved in that research?
3. Once I have found an individual(or individuals), how should I contact them?
4. Can anyone search the Professional Pages? Yes. Can people outside the USGS create a profile on the Professional Pages?
5. How can a reporter find a media contact using the Professional Pages?
6. I am a student looking for a science project idea. Can I contact one of the scientists through their Professional Page?
7. Are there USGS Web sites other than the Professional Pages that demonstrate the capabilities of USGS individuals?
8. What are the USGS Science Strategy areas?

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the objective of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Professional Pages?

   The USGS Professional Pages were designed to enable USGS scientists, technical experts, and science support personnel to collaborate with individuals in the private sector, academia, other government agencies, and the general public. The Professional Pages highlight employees’ expertise, professional contributions, collaborations, publications, journal articles, and specialized areas of interest.

2. If I have a specific question about science research, how do I go about finding a scientist involved in that research?

   You can simply click on the search button and enter your search criteria. For example, in the keyword search you could enter any logical category, such as Geography, Geology, Water, or Biology and you can be more specific by adding another search field such as a State or strategy area.

3. Once I have found an individual(or individuals), how should I contact them?

   Use their contact information that is available on their Professional Page.

4. Can anyone search the Professional Pages? Yes. Can people outside the USGS create a profile on the Professional Pages?

   No. The USGS Professional Pages are a database of information about USGS employees only.

5. How can a reporter find a media contact using the Professional Pages?

   Reporters are best served by contacting the USGS Public Affairs Office at (703) 648-4460. Our media specialists will provide a referral to an expert in your area of interest.

6. I am a student looking for a science project idea. Can I contact one of the scientists through their Professional Page?

   We have other Web sites that can be of more help to you. Contact “Ask USGS” (http://www.usgs.gov/ask/) or call 1-888-ASK-USGS (1-888-275-8747). For questions related to geology only, receive a personal response from a USGS scientist by contacting “Ask-A-Geologist” (http://walrus.wr.usgs.gov/ask-a-geologist/). You may also visit our Science Education Web site at http://education.usgs.gov/.

7. Are there USGS Web sites other than the Professional Pages that demonstrate the capabilities of USGS individuals?

   The USGS has made the Professional Pages the authoritative Web site for employees’ professional profiles.

8. What are the USGS Science Strategy areas?

   In 2007, the USGS developed a science vision and strategy for the coming decade centered around six significant and challenging societal issues:

   • Understanding Ecosystems and Predicting Ecosystem Change
   • Climate Variability and Change
   • Energy and Minerals for America’s Future
   • National Hazards, Risk, and Resilience Assessment
   • The Role of Environment and Wildlife in Human Health
   • A Water Census of the United States.
   
   The USGS is integrating the breadth and depth of its science capability in addressing these issues. The Professional Pages help facilitate that integration among our scientists and partners.