Kris MacLennan

About Kris MacLennan

Passionate about work that makes a difference. In pursuit of challenges that allow me to learn and grow while contributing my skills and strengths to make the whole better than the sum of its parts. My range of interests includes research, field work, education and outreach, team management, and public policy. My primary focus lies in electrical and electromagnetic geophysics, from survey design, modeling, and data collection to inversion and interpretation. I\'m also experienced in writing proposals and grants and managing projects, including working with contractors and consultants to ensure a research project is funded and moves smoothly. I have given multiple presentations at scientific workshops and conferences, and received Honorable Mention for the best paper presented at the SEG Annual Convention in 2016. Other scientific interests include hydrology and hydrogeophysics, particularly in the Western US; applying geophysics to environmental issues, particularly in the areas of contamination and remediation; and in communication of science at all levels, from CEOs to local stakeholders to students and the interested public. It has been my honor to have served as the Secretary, President, and (currently) Past President of the Bay Area Geophysical Society, and to have led the development and promotion of their Louise \"Lu\" Pellerin Memorial Scholarship for women-identifying students studying geophysics in California. Outside of work, my interests include singing, outdoor exploration, and gaming. I\'ve sung with a variety of local musical groups, in classical, barbershop, a cappella, and stage-and-screen ensembles. I have a great love for board games and role playing games, and have in the past taught chess to scholastic youth around the San Francisco Bay Area. I prize the group storytelling and teamwork aspects that can arise from gaming, while simultaneously learning and challenging myself both tactically and strategically.

Experience

1. Project Geophysicist

   Terracon

   Apr 2026 — Present · Concord, CA, US

   As a Project Geophysicist with Terracon, I design and perform a comprehensive range of geophysical technologies in support of geologic, groundwater, environmental, engineering, and materials testing investigations; analyze the resulting geophysical data; and provide clients with interpretations of results, which are incorporated into the planning, design and construction of vital infrastructure such as roads, tunnels, airports, landfills, water supplies, and other facilities. I am a team leader who mentors junior geophysicists, innovates solutions to encountered problems, and develops and deepens client relationships.

Education

• UC Berkeley

  B.A, Honors; B.A

  2002 — 2006

• Colorado School of Mines

  Ph.D

  2006 — 2013