Polar Geospatial Center

💡🤝 Staying relevant in science support means more than tracking new AI tools, it's about engaging with the people shaping how they're used.

PGC has been busy this week attending University of Minnesota events, connecting at the AI Hub open house and the Research Computing Exhibition today. These conversations help us stay aligned, informed, and ready to support what's next.

Check out the latest at PGC in our April newsletter featuring our Antarctic support survey, global glacial mapping, our graduate student geospatial support assistants, and more! https://mailchi.mp/umn/pgc-updates-insights-april-01-2026

We're hiring!

The Polar Geospatial Center (PGC) at the University of Minnesota is seeking a Geospatial and Remote Sensing Data Specialist to join our team supporting polar research and logistics. 🌍❄️

If you’re passionate about remote sensing data and geospatial innovation and you want to help researchers map and understand the most remote regions on Earth, we want to hear from you!

What you’ll do:
🛰️ Develop and maintain geospatial tools for automated processing of satellite imagery and elevation models
💡 Support and collaborate with scientists using remote sensing data
📊 Create maps, figures, and training materials that make complex data accessible
🌎 Represent PGC at conferences and outreach events

Qualifications:
- Advanced degree and experience in GIS, Remote Sensing, or Earth Sciences
- Proficiency in Python and geospatial software (ArcGIS, QGIS, GDAL)
- Strong communication and problem-solving skills

Hybrid position (based in Minneapolis, MN)
Salary range: $83K–$98K

Learn more: https://www.pgc.umn.edu/careers/position-available-geospatial-and-remote-sensing-data-specialist-2025/

PGC is seeking a current UMN Graduate Student in GIS or related field! You'll help polar scientists access vital geospatial data, create custom map products, and contribute to cutting-edge research support.

🧊 What You’ll Gain:
Hands-on experience in GIS & remote sensing
Project management & user support skills
Exposure to national research initiatives
A supportive and mission-driven team environment
Opportunities to grow professionally through conferences & training

🌐 Details:
2025-26 Academic Year | 50% appointment | $29.41/hr
Must be a currently enrolled UMN grad student
Strong problem-solving, communication & organization skills preferred
Tuition benefits during academic year

🔗 https://www.pgc.umn.edu/careers/student-position-available-graduate-research-assistant-fall-2025/

Effective immediately and until further notice, the Polar Geospatial Center will no longer be accepting new requests for data, products, or services to support NSF awards or contracts. Due to the lack of ongoing NSF renewal funding, the PGC is wrapping up the current in-progress work and requests to accommodate the end of staff positions and available funds. Should funding resume in the future, information will be provided to communicate when and at what level services will be continued. If your work is impacted by this news, please reach out to your NSF program officer.

The PGC has been proud to support the polar research and logistics communities for decades and contribute cutting edge geospatial innovations in support of your critical work. Obviously this news comes at a difficult time for many in the polar community. The PGC staff stands with you in spirit as we all look for additional opportunities to work together.

Sincerely,
The PGC User Services Team