What Do Demographic Shifts Reveal About the Future of Metro St. Louis?
- Ralph Pfremmer
- Apr 1
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 2
J.S. Onésimo Sándoval, Ph.d, is a professor specializing in demography and sociology at Saint Louis University, focuses his research on integrating demography with spatial data science. His work primarily explores the use of big data to analyze socio-economic and demographic trends in American cities. As a founding member of the Taylor Geospatial Institute, Sándoval plays a key role in advancing research in this field. He also writes a newspaper column, Rediscovering America Through Demography, where he writes about the demographic changes shaping the U.S. and their potential long-term impacts. Through his research and public outreach, Sándoval seeks to connect data and statistics with policy, helping communities better understand and adapt to the demographic shifts that affect their lives.
On Thursday, April 17, 2025, 11:15 AM – 1:00 PM at the AC Hotel, Chesterfield, Dr. Sandoval will present during the Progress 64 West Monthly Speaker Luncheon
Dr. Sándoval focuses on using geospatial statistics and mapping to uncover patterns of social inequality and demographic change. His work aims to make complex scientific data accessible to the public, empowering communities to visualize and address pressing issues like segregation, spatial inequality, and resource allocation. By combining advanced geoinformatics with a deep understanding of societal dynamics, Dr. Sándoval seeks to inform policies and foster equitable urban development, particularly in regions like St. Louis.

Dr. Sándoval is uniquely qualified as an expert in his field due to his extensive academic background, practical experience, and innovative research. He holds advanced degrees, including a Ph.D. from the University of California, Berkeley, and has served as an associate professor of sociology and demography at Saint Louis University. Dr. Sándoval is also the co-director of the Ph.D. program in Public and Social Policy and the founder of the GeoSpatial Research and Innovation Lab (GeoSRI). His expertise in geospatial statistics, urban sociology, and demographic analysis allows him to uncover and address patterns of spatial inequality and social disparities. Additionally, his work as an applied demographer and consultant for community organizations in the Midwest further demonstrates his ability to translate complex data into actionable insights, making him a leader in his field.