Get Help in the Libraries
The Libraries’ GIS team is available to help UMass students, staff, and faculty members troubleshoot software issues, find data, and conduct vector/raster spatial analysis. We can connect you to resources about related topics, like software licensing, data management, data visualization, photogrammetry and 3D model construction.

John Slaff
John can help with basic and intermediate-level GIS questions, like accessing and installing GIS software, getting help with course assignments, and figuring out which GIS analyses can answer your research question. Best for undergraduate and graduate students.

Becky Seifried
Becky can help with all kinds of GIS questions, including more advanced project brainstorming and searching for available GIS data. Best for graduate students, staff/faculty, and members of the public.
GIS Help Desk
Hours and Location
Thursdays @ 2:30–4:30 pm
In person
Room 1620 (Floor 16) <– updated location!
W.E.B. Du Bois Library
Current Status: Steaming Ahead
- The Help Desk will not be held on Thursday, March 16, during Spring Recess.
- Due to inclement weather, the Help Desk will not be held on Thursday, Feb. 23.
Help Beyond the Libraries
Help Desk for Programming & Statistical Analysis (Spring 2023)
Languages/Software:
Python, R, SQL, ArcGIS/QGIS ModelBuilder
When/Where:
Mondays/Thursdays, 5:30-7:00 PM, on Zoom!
Who can join?
All Earth, Geographic, and Climate Sciences and Environmental Conservation students (Undergrads & Grads), plus anyone from outside the department if interested/applicable.
Why?
This help is not tied to any course and rather is being held virtually by an ECG student (Ian Kennedy – MS Geography 2023). Any programming-related assignments and/or questions are welcomed!
Institute for Social Science Research
ISSR provides resources and support for researchers using social science methods, seeking to take part in collaborative and interdisciplinary research, doing publicly engaged research, and seeking external funding for research. ISSR staff can help with questions about statistics and data visualization. Visit the ISSR website to make an appointment.
Quantitative Sciences Group
For students enrolled in the Environmental Conservation program, the Quantitative Sciences Group can provide consultations in statistical modeling and spatial data analysis. Visit the Quantitative Sciences Group website for more information.
Last Updated on March 20, 2023