Dr Christel Hansen holds a BSc in Geoinformatics from the University of Pretoria (UP), and has been doing research at the University since 2018.

The focus of her work is to understand how the landscape is affected by natural and anthropogenic processes. “By understanding how the landscape changes – such as through a landslide or a river flooding – we can better plan and manage for the effects of such occurrences,” Dr Hansen explains. “Geographic information science allows me to do this quickly, at a fairly low cost, using the computing and data power that is currently available.”

Her research centres on how geoinformation science can be used to improve the well-being and health of the urban citizen. This is done by modelling an individual’s energy expenditure, and using information from the health sciences and the natural world (such as difficulty of the terrain or gradients). This information can be made available to the public on online platforms such as web maps. Dr Hansen works to improve access and the user-friendliness of these platforms so that information can be disseminated more effectively.

Geoinformation science is important, she says, because everything has a geospatial component. “Geomorphology matters because if we do not understand how the landscape works and evolves, we will not understand our place within it very well. Our decisions are always partly influenced by the physical world around us.”

Dr Hansen is passionate about what she does and says she is inspired by people who are focused, dedicated and innovative. “I want to do good work that I am happy with. Students enjoy it when I teach them aspects of geoinformation or use examples drawn from my research.”

Her advice to school learners or undergraduates who are interested in her field is to investigate something that they are interested in. “Don’t be afraid to ask questions. There is an exciting world out there with many mysteries still to be solved. Next time you think a question will make you look ‘stupid’, remember that all answers require a question, and all solutions require a problem. There are no stupid questions.”

In her free time, Dr Hansen enjoys being in nature. “I love walking or hiking among the amazing landforms and landscapes that I study.”