Picolinic acid N-oxide is primarily utilized in the field of organic synthesis as a versatile intermediate. It plays a significant role in the preparation of various heterocyclic compounds, which are essential in the development of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Additionally, it is employed in coordination chemistry to form complexes with metal ions, aiding in the study of catalytic processes and material science. Its applications also extend to research in bioinorganic chemistry, where it helps in understanding metal ion interactions in biological systems.