Your Research Has a Where. We Help You Find It.
U-Spatial is the University of Minnesota's core hub for geospatial expertise, tools, and collaboration. Blending insights from across fields, we break down silos to connect researchers, students, and faculty across every college and campus. No matter your field, we're here to help you think spatially.
Learn more about U-Spatial →Visit The Spatial University Ecosystem
Connecting the U's Spatial Enterprise
Part of Research Computing within the University’s Research and Innovation Office, U-Spatial works at the literal intersection of disciplines. We bridge the gaps between public health, ecology, urban planning, and the digital humanities.
While we collaborate closely with massive research centers, we also specialize in serving the "long tail" of the scientific enterprise. By providing spatial expertise, we elevate smaller, independent projects to deliver disproportionately great benefits for the university and the State of Minnesota. We don't silo data; we connect communities.
What We Do
U-Spatial brings together the people, software, and data that power geospatial research and learning across the University of Minnesota. We work with researchers, students, and faculty at every level. Whether you are a first-time mapmaker or a seasoned spatial scientist, we ensure the 'where' of your work gets the attention it deserves.
Geospatial Expertise and Collaboration
Our team of GIS specialists, developers, and analysts work alongside you as scientific collaborators, not just service providers. From initial project scoping through final execution, we bring spatial thinking to your research questions and connect you with the right people and tools across the university. Email U-Spatial at [email protected] to get started, or click the link below.
Infrastructure and Software Management
We believe a new graduate student should have access to the same high-quality geospatial tools as a major research lab. We manage the university's geospatial software ecosystem, including over 20,000 ArcGIS accounts, handling the technical overhead so you can level the playing field in your research field. Access to tools like ArcGIS Online, ArcGIS Pro, QGIS, and Planet Labs satellite imagery.
Knowledge Transfer
Through hands-on workshops, one-on-one consultations, and community events, we build spatial literacy across campus. Whether you need to learn the basics of web mapping or dive into advanced remote sensing analysis, we have training and resources to get you there.
Solving Complex Problems
Some of the most pressing challenges facing Minnesota and the world, from hazard mitigation to public health equity, are fundamentally spatial. We apply advanced geospatial tools and rigorous scientific analysis to help researchers tackle these "wicked" problems and deliver real-world impact.
Start exploring
Software, data and training for every level, most of it free to the UMN community.
Get the tools
Access ArcGIS Online, ArcGIS Pro, QGIS and Planet Labs imagery. Find out what is available to you and how to get set up.
Explore Software →Find your data
Browse curated geospatial datasets for Minnesota and beyond, so you can spend less time hunting and more time mapping.
Browse Data →Build your skills
Workshops, tutorials and guides for every level, from your first web map to advanced remote sensing.
Visit the Learning Hub →Frequently Asked Questions
New to U-Spatial? Here are answers to some of the questions we hear most often.
Who can use U-Spatial's services?
Anyone at the University of Minnesota
With physical offices in Duluth and the Twin Cities, U-Spatial serves students, faculty, researchers, and staff across every college, department, and campus of the University of Minnesota. Whether you're an undergraduate working on a class project or a principal investigator leading a multi-year research initiative, our services are available to you. Many of our core offerings, including help desk, consultations, and training workshops, are provided free of charge.
What kind of help can I get from the Help Desk?
Guidance on GIS, remote sensing, and spatial data
The Help Desk is your first point of contact for geospatial questions of all kinds. Our team can help with software selection and troubleshooting, data visualization and mapping, spatial analysis methodology, finding the right datasets for your project, and connecting you with specialized experts across the university. You can reach us by email at [email protected] to ask a question or schedule an appointment, in person or over Zoom.
Do I need GIS experience to work with U-Spatial?
No prior experience required
Absolutely not. We work with researchers at every skill level and pride ourselves on making geospatial tools accessible. If you're new to spatial data, we'll help you identify the right tools and get you up to speed quickly. For many projects, a tool like ArcGIS Online can be learned in a matter of hours. Our job is to remove the technical friction so you can focus on your research.
How do I access geospatial software through U-Spatial?
Software access for the UMN community
U-Spatial administers the university's geospatial software ecosystem. Most software like ArcGIS Online, ArcGIS Pro, and QGIS are available to all UMN students, faculty and staff at no cost. We also provide access to specialized tools like Planet Labs satellite imagery for research and teaching. Visit our Software page to explore available tools, or contact the Help Desk for guidance on which software is right for your project.
Can U-Spatial help with grant proposals?
Yes, we partner on proposals and projects
We regularly collaborate with faculty and researchers to develop the geospatial components of grant proposals. Our team can help you articulate the spatial dimensions of your research, identify the right tools and data sources, and demonstrate access to a multi-faceted team of geospatial experts. Contact us early in your proposal development process at [email protected] so we can be most useful.
Meet the Team
A dedicated group of GIS specialists, developers, and analysts
Our team brings together expertise in geographic information systems, remote sensing, spatial computing, and geospatial analysis across the Twin Cities and Duluth campuses. We're researchers and problem-solvers who happen to think spatially, and we're here to help you do the same.
News & Updates
Geospatial Commendation for Lead Service Line Mapping Project
Minnesota Lead Service Line Data Collection and Display Project has been awarded a Governor’s Geospatial Commendation for its outstanding contribution to public health and geospatial innovation.
Stacey Stark Honored for Emergency Management Advocacy
U-Spatial Associate Director recognized by the Association of Minnesota Emergency Managers.
See How Spatial Thinking Creates Real-World Impact