The Illinois State Geological Survey (ISGS) is part of the Prairie Research Institute at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. The Survey is located in the Natural Resources Building on the University's 700-acre campus. This central Illinois location (map and driving directions) is just 130 miles south of Chicago. It is a cultural and educational center that is ranked as one of the top ten "high-tech" cities in the U.S. The area provides the attractive combination of small-city convenience and quality of life with ready access to world-class laboratory and academic facilities, Big Ten athletic events, and internationally acclaimed cultural opportunities. The ISGS is a premier state Geological Survey serving the needs of Illinois with earth science information relevant to the State's environmental quality, economic vitality, and public safety. Some 200 scientists and technical support staff conduct basic and applied research in geology, compile geologic maps, and gather and manage the state's geological data to provide information to industry, governmental agencies and the public about the geology and mineral resources of Illinois. Survey staff may conduct joint research projects, supervise graduate studies, and teach courses through joint appointments with the University.