Abstract
The article assesses the condition of cartographic research in the context of young scientists. Based on an analysis of the 469 academic achievements of 77 young Polish cartographers in the 2016–2022 period, the authors highlight challenges in defining contemporary cartography and difficulties in classifying research due to its interdisciplinary nature, overlap with GIS, and the use of cartographic methods in studies from other fields. The study also examines thematic trends, mobility constraints, and patterns of scientific collaboration. The findings emphasise the need to support young researchers and foster interinstitutional cooperation.