Rachael Hurd

Dr. Rachael Hurd is a Senior Lecturer in Spatial Sciences at the University of Tasmania's School of Geography, Planning, and Spatial Sciences. With over 20 years of academic experience, she serves as Deputy Head of School and Course Coordinator for the Graduate Diploma of Land Surveying. Her expertise spans glaciology, geodesy, and Antarctic spatial science research.

Education: Completed undergraduate and postgraduate studies in Surveying and Spatial Sciences at the University of Tasmania (1991-2002), with her PhD focusing on glaciological applications of satellite positioning in Antarctica. Her postgraduate research involved large-scale fieldwork in East Antarctica, analyzing glacier dynamics using GPS and geophysical methods.

Research Interests: Specializes in GPS/GNSS data analysis, ice sheet dynamics observation, and tropospheric water vapor detection. Her work integrates spatial technologies to address climate change impacts on polar environments, with a focus on the Amery Ice Shelf and Lambert Glacier Basin.

Funded Projects: Participated in the Australian Antarctic Program Partnership (2019-2029), a $50M initiative involving multiple institutions to study Antarctic climate and marine ecosystems.

Awards: No specific awards listed, but recognized for contributions to Antarctic spatial science through collaborative projects and institutional leadership roles.

Teaching & Supervision: Coordinates surveying courses including KGG306, KGG546, and professional placement programs. Engages students in practical applications of geospatial technologies through coursework and fieldwork.

Service: Serves on the Tasmanian Land Surveyors Accreditation Board and Tasmanian Spatial Information Council, promoting standards and spatial data initiatives.