Dr. Chris Anthonissen

Biography

I’m a structural geologist interested in integrating field geology with remote sensing techniques such as LiDAR and imaging spectroscopy to investigate the tectonic and environmental processes that shape Earth’s surface. My teaching emphasizes the integration of field observations with GIS and remote sensing techniques to develop the practical geoscientific and spatial analytical skills that may be applied to real-world geological and environmental problems both inside and outside academia.

My professional experience spans both academia and industry. Prior to completing a PhD focused on blind-thrust faulting beneath urban California, I worked as an exploration and consulting geologist on a range of projects across Africa. This combination of academic research and applied geological experience informs my approach to teaching by linking geological theory with practical applications in environmental analysis, natural hazards, remote sensing, and resource exploration.

Education and Professional Experience

PhD in Active Tectonics, University of Southern California (2025)

Consulting Geologist, TECT Geological, Somerset West, ZA

Exploration Geologist, Remote Exploration Services, Cape Town, ZA 

MSc in Structural Geology, University of Stellenbosch (2010)

BSc (Hons) in Geology, University of Stellenbosch (2007)

Research Interests

Structural Geology and Active Tectonics

3D Geological Modelling

Fault related folding and Blind-thrust faulting

Seismic Hazard

GIS and Remote Sensing

Multispectral Imagery analysis and Image Spectroscopy for geological applications