Department of Geography & Environmental Studies, Stellenbosch University

The Department of Geography and Environmental Studies at Stellenbosch University proudly congratulates Dr Zahn Münch on her promotion to Associate Professor.

Professor Münch has built an outstanding career spanning computer programming, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and GeoInformation Technology. After completing her BSc in Chemistry and Biochemistry at Stellenbosch University, she gained extensive industry experience before returning to academia, earning an MSc in GIS and later a PhD focusing on spatial modelling using remote sensing and GIS.

Since joining Stellenbosch University in 2009, she has made significant contributions to teaching and research in GeoInformation Technology, inspiring students while advancing innovative applications of GIS and remote sensing. We are incredibly proud of this well-deserved achievement and thank Professor Münch for her dedication to excellence in teaching, research, and the geospatial sciences.

Congratulations, Professor Zahn Münch! We wish you continued success in this exciting new chapter.

The Department of Geography and Environmental Studies at Stellenbosch University proudly congratulates Dr Danie du Plessis on his promotion to Associate Professor.

Associate Professor du Plessis is a registered Town and Regional Planner with more than 30 years of experience in urban management, policy development, and the spatial analysis of cities and urban systems. His teaching and research focus on urban planning innovation, urban spatial transformation, and spatial statistical analysis and modelling. He also serves as Director of the Centre for Regional and Urban Innovation and Statistical Exploration (CRUISE), where he continues to advance impactful research and collaboration.

We are incredibly proud of this well-deserved achievement and grateful for his outstanding contributions to teaching, research, academic leadership, and the planning profession.

Congratulations, Professor du Plessis!

We wish you continued success in this exciting new chapter.

The Department of Geography and Environmental Studies at Stellenbosch University proudly congratulates Dr Suzanne Grenfell on her promotion to Associate Professor.

Professor Grenfell is an internationally respected geomorphologist whose research has advanced our understanding of wetlands, rivers and ecosystem services across diverse landscapes, from South Africa to Wales. Her current collaborative research explores the impacts of climate change on floodplain ecosystem services.

In addition to her research, she is a dedicated educator, coordinator of the BA Honours Geography and Environmental Studies programme, Chair of the BIOGRIP (Stellenbosch Soil and Water Node) academic steering panel, and an active contributor to the wider scientific community through her leadership and editorial roles.

We are proud to celebrate this well-deserved achievement and thank Professor Grenfell for her outstanding contributions to research, teaching and academic leadership.

Congratulations, Professor Grenfell! We wish you continued success in this exciting new chapter.

Dr George Olivier recently visited Friedrich Schiller University Jena under the Erasmus+ Staff Mobility Programme, where he was hosted by Professor Jussi Baade and Professor Chris Schmullius.

Gustav Visser was a guest of the Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic Studies, discussing potential staff exchanges. He was hosted by Branislav Bédi, a project manager in the institute's International Division.

Gustav Visser spent the past two weeks as a guest of the Department of Geography and Tourism Studies at the University of Iceland. He also attended the Nordic Geography Meeting, which was hosted there this past week.

Dr Jan de Waal and Dr Andrew Watson (School of Climate Studies) are currently in Vienna, presenting a workshop on water balance modelling using stable isotope data.

Parents of Geography students will be pleased to hear that our students take both their studies and socialising very seriously. Aandklas (Evening Class) is the most popular hangout spot among our Geography students, according to a survey recently conducted by the SA City module students among first- to honours-year Geography students. The top five places are:
1. Aandklas (35,4%)
2. Ginos (31,2%)
3. Akker (28,6%)
4. Fools Gold (27,5%); Kapstad Brauhaus (27,5%)
5. Dorp (27%); Lapa (27%)

The Department had the opportunity to host students from Rollins College from the USA this week. A great learning experience, and we look forward to welcoming you next year!

Suzanne Grenfell took her Geomorphology Honours students out on one of their field classes this week. Much was learnt.