Over time, rock masses are subjected to a variety of forces in the Earth's crust (i.e. tectonic forces) that can cause them to deform. The delineation, description and analysis of deformed rock structures is known as structural geology.

Structural geology is used to interpret the deformational history of rock masses and the distribution of geological features within them. From this history a framework is provided for extending known information into unknown regions of deformed rock masses. Structural geologists assess the nature of tectonic forces (e.g. origin, magnitude, direction) acting within the Earth's crust.

Expertise in structural geology and tectonics

• Karen Fallas (Northeastern British Columbia and Mackenzie Mountains)
• Chris Harrison (Arctic Islands)
• Larry Lane (Northern Yukon, northeastern British Columbia, northeastern Russia and Arctic tectonics)
• Margot McMechan (Southern Rocky Mountains and Foothills)
• Glen Stockmal (Southern Rocky Mountain Foothills; northeastern British Columbia; western Newfoundland)

Emeritus researcher

• Don Cook (Mackenzie Mountains)