Spatial Analysis Lab

Where Spatial Science Meets
Solutions.

We leverage precision geospatial technologies, including LiDAR, Earth Engine analytics, and advanced remote sensing, to address complex challenges in geomorphology, social and environmental sustainability, conservation, and archaeology.

Active Research Programs

Current Work

Our lab is engaged in cutting-edge spatial research that addresses real-world challenges, from climate dynamics in Kruger National Park to humanitarian drone applications across Africa.

Remote sensing analysis SANBI-Funded · Ongoing
Environmental Science · Climate Research

Decoupling Climate Change and Land Use in Kruger National Park

In collaboration with the University of Mpumalanga's Biology and Environmental Sciences, this project uses multi-decadal remote sensing to disentangle the relative effects of climate change versus land-use change on bush encroachment.

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Research Question

How do climate variables interact with land management practices (past and present) to drive woody plant encroachment in savanna ecosystems?

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Methodology

Multi-decadal NDVI, LST, ET, and soil moisture analysis using GIS and Google Earth Engine. Statistical modeling includes multiple linear regression.

satellite_alt Google Earth Engine analytics Statistical Modeling
Partners: University of Mpumalanga · SANBI · Furman University
UNICEF · Ongoing

African Drone & Data Academy: GIS Skills Development

As Co-Creator and GIS Curriculum Lead for ADDA, Dr. Muthukrishnan designs and delivers geospatial education and technical training content for the UNICEF-supported program training drone pilots and data analysts across Africa.

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Program Impact

Program continues to expand across multiple African nations, with more than 1300 students earning Level 1 and Level 2 certificates.

flight Drone Operations map GIS Training
Partners: UNICEF · ADDA · Furman University · Virginia Tech ·  MUST
Drone training UNICEF · Ongoing
Geospatial curriculum Fulbright · 2025–28
Fulbright Specialist · 2025–28

Geospatial Curriculum & Mentoring Initiative, University of Mpumalanga

Fulbright engagement developing geospatial sciences as an integrating discipline at UMP, South Africa. Activities span drone/LiDAR and StoryMaps training workshops, and WebGIS platform development.

school Curriculum Development auto_stories StoryMaps
Partners: University of Mpumalanga · U.S. Fulbright Program
Collaboration Network

Research Partners

Our work is supported/strengthened by partnerships with leading institutions, organizations, and NGOs both local and international.

UNICEF / ADDA
University of Mpumalanga
SANBI
U.S. Fulbright Program
City of Greenville
Furman University
Virginia Tech
Malawi University of Science and Technology

Do you have a project that needs a proven and reliable collaborator/partner to implement?

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