This paper reviews research in geographical cognition that provides part of the theoretical foundation of geographical information science. Freestanding research streams in cognitive science, behavioural geography, and cartography converged in the last decade or so with work on theoretical foundations for geographical information systems to produce a coherent research community that advances geographical information science, geographical information systems, and the contributing fields and disciplines. Then, we review three high-priority research areas that are the topics for research initiatives within the NCGIA's Project Varenius. Other topics consider but ranked less important at this time are also reviewed.