The Center for Geospatial Research and Technology (CGRT) serves as the central hub for geospatial data science, technology, and interdisciplinary collaboration across Michigan Technological University. Housed within the Great Lakes Research Center (GLRC) as the evolution of the former Geospatial Research Facility (GRF), the CGRT connects researchers across campus with the technical expertise, specialized computing infrastructure, and spatial data tools required to drive innovative research.
What We Do
The CGRT fosters interdisciplinary collaboration while providing comprehensive GIS expertise and technical support. Our core capabilities and offerings include:
- GIS Expertise & Support: Customized assistance with web-based map production, custom application development, geospatial data management, and community outreach.
- Project Development & Computing Resources: Dedicated workspace and specialized computing power for students, faculty, and staff advancing geospatial research.
- ArcGIS Enterprise Geospatial Data Portal: Secure, centralized hosting for geospatial project data, spatial analytics, and custom web applications.
By bringing together researchers, advanced computing tools, and data infrastructure under one roof, the CGRT aims to elevate geospatial innovation across Michigan Tech.
Leadership
- Professor of Geography and GIS
- Director, Geospatial Research Facility
Research Interests
- Children's Health and Lifecourse Epidemiology
- Urban Environments and Population Health
- Public Participatory GIS
- Historical GIS & Deep Mapping
- Deindustrialization and Shrinking Cities
- Time-Space Integration and Modeling in GIS
- Demography and Historical Record Linkage
- Community Development
- Assistant Director, Geospatial Research Facility
- rywillia@mtu.edu
- 906-487-1485
- GLRC 313
Areas of Expertise
- Geographic Information Systems
- Database Development
- GIS Tool and Process Development
- Integrating Web, GIS, Database and Analytics Tools
Collaborate With CGRT
Whether you are preparing a grant proposal, building custom spatial applications, or looking to integrate GIS methods into your ongoing research program, our team is here to collaborate. To explore how the CGRT can support your research, collaborate on upcoming proposals, or access our ArcGIS Enterprise portal, contact the CGRT team by emailing grf@mtu.edu.