Director, GIS & Remote Sensing Center

Meet Dr. Suresh
Muthukrishnan

Professor, Fulbright Scholar, mentor, and advocate for spatial science education, building bridges between technology and humanity, one map at a time.

More Than Just Coordinates

I believe that teaching is a conversation. While my title says "Professor," I see myself first and foremost as a mentor. My greatest joy comes from watching a student's eyes light up when they realize that a map isn't just a picture, it's a powerful story of how we live on this planet.

I am a Professor of Earth, Environmental,  Sustainability Sciences at Furman University, where I direct the GIS & Remote Sensing Center (Spatial Analysis Lab). My research spans GIS, remote sensing, drone/UAV applications, natural hazards, geomorphology, local environmental and community sustainability, WebGIS, health GIS, and GIS education.

"I love the 'aha!' moment in the lab. My goal is to make sure every student who walks into the lab feels empowered to use these tools to make a difference."

— Dr. Suresh Muthukrishnan

Beyond the technology, I'm here to listen. Whether you're curious about drone photogrammetry or just need some guidance on your academic path, you'll find a welcoming environment at the GIS lab or Spatial Analysis Lab. I believe in learning by doing, and I'm always ready to jump into a new project with anyone who shares a spark of curiosity. 

Outside the lab you'll find me hiking, doing photography, and exploring landscapes, an orientation that shapes how I approach every spatial problem. My fieldwork and studies has taken me to Malawi, Ethiopia, Niger Republic, South Africa, New Zealand, many countries in Europe, China, and throughout the lower 48 states of the USA.

Recognition & Impact

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Fulbright Specialist (2025-28)

Designated Fulbright Specialist for Geospatial Curriculum and Mentoring, currently deployed at the University of Mpumalanga, South Africa.

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Fulbright U.S. Scholar (2017-18)

Conducted research and taught at the University of Malawi, expanding geospatial education capacity across Southern Africa.

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UNICEF ADDA GIS Curriculum Lead

Co-Creator and GIS Curriculum Lead for the UNICEF funded African Drone & Data Academy, equipping young professionals across Africa in 21st century skills.

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Mentoring Excellence

The recognition I value most. the success and professional growth of 300+ students who have passed through the GIS lab.

From Student to Scholar

1990s

Where It All Began

B.Sc. in Applied Geology at Anna University, Chennai, India.

MID-LATE 1990s

Specializing in Geoexploration

M.Sc., and M.Tech. at IIT Bombay, Mumbai, deepening expertise in applied geology and environmental problem solving through field based and computational data analysis.

EARLY 2000s

Finding My Path

Ph.D. at Purdue University, West Lafayette. Developed advanced GIS, Remote sensing and webGIS expertise, started learning and practicing project-based learning.

2002–Present

Building the Lab at Furman

20+ years at Furman University, Greenville, SC.  I teach Geomorphology, GIS, Remote Sensing, Climate System, Natural Hazards and Disasters among other courses. Developed passion for teaching through field-experiences, and real-world problem solving. Continuing my own journey as a student in pursuit of new and advanced knowledge and experiences every day.     

2017–18 & 2025-28

Fulbright Engagements

Extensive research, teaching, and capacity building in Malawi and South Africa.

2020

Co-Created African Drone and Data Academy (ADDA)

Teaching, mentoring, and capacity building in geospatial, earth observation, and drone technologies and their applications to environmental and social problem solving across Africa.

Let's Connect

"Whether you're a student looking for a research opportunity, a colleague with a new idea, or just someone curious about the world, I'd love to hear from you."

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Office
EESS Department Office Suite, Townes Science Center, Furman University, Greenville, SC 29613