Kurt Katzenstein
Mickelson Professor
Education
Brief Bio
Dr. Katzenstein is an Associate Professor in the Department of Geology and Geological Engineering at South Dakota Mines. He is a professional engineer in the state of Nevada and worked for three years as a geotechnical engineer prior to joining Mines. Dr. Katzenstein is actively involved in ABET accreditation where he has served as a commissioner, team chair, and program evaluator. Outside of work, Dr. Katzenstein enjoys hiking, camping, beekeeping, golf, curling, and galivanting all around the region for high school and club sporting events his three daughters participate in.
Research Expertise
Dr. Katzenstein’s research focuses on understanding and mitigating dynamic processes on the surface of the planet including landslides (in both soil and rock), rockfall, and land subsidence. He utilizes synthetic aperture radar interferometry (InSAR) to quantify many of these hazards.
Teaching
Dr. Katzenstein teaches Introduction to Geology, Geological Engineering, and Mining Engineering, Geology for Engineers, Environmental and Engineering Geology, Engineering Field Geology, Engineering Geophysics, and Synthetic Aperture Radar Interferometry. He is known for his engaging lectures and hands-on approach to education.