About GRAIL

A geographic information system (GIS) integrates hardware, software, and data for the capture, management, analysis, and display of geographically referenced data in many ways that can be used to improve understanding. Geospatial technology is being used in a wide range of fields that deal with location-based information—from city planning to business marketing—and, as a result, offers career paths in diverse areas. The U.S. Department of Labor considers geospatial technology a high-growth industry and projects employment in this area to increase 35 percent by 2020.

The Geospatial Research and Information Laboratory (GRAIL) offers GIS support and training services to NAU faculty, staff, students, and partners at its two on-campus facilities. GRAIL staff members also assist researchers conducting GIS-related research, including supporting spatial data management, serving data, and assisting with integrative activities such as data modeling and visualization design.

Locations

GRAIL North: Biological Sciences Annex (Building 21B), Room 413

GRAIL South: SBS West (Building 70), Room 010

Partners

GRAIL is a Northern Arizona University facility that is jointly managed by the Department of Geography, Planning, and Recreation and the Merriam-Powell Center for Environmental Research.