Research in geography, earth and atmospheric sciences

Our research by theme

Faculty of Science researchers conduct diverse and varied research in our state-of-the-art facilities. Our scientists are global leaders in their fields, finding solutions to the biggest issues we face today.

• Climate change

  Our research pushes the frontiers of knowledge about climate change. We have expertise in understanding past, present, and future impacts of climate change on climate systems, ecosystems, landscapes and sociocultural systems, as well as the fundamental science of climate and weather.

• Earth system interactions

  Our research unravels the dynamic interface between life, the environment, and the solid Earth. We answer fundamental questions relating to the past and future of the Earth while addressing the pressing need to improve ecosystem resilience, bioremediation, carbon cycling, and food security.

• Environmental hazards

  Our research enhances knowledge of the physical and socio-political dimensions of environmental hazards. We propose solutions to ensure the sustainability of natural and built environments in the face of rapid global change.

• Indigenous knowledge

  Our researchers partner with diverse Indigenous groups in Australia and overseas to advance understanding and communication of Indigenous ambitions, experiences, knowledges, rights, and wellbeing that is vital for social justice.

• Resource futures

  Our research expands understandings of the future of resources from a range of geological, atmospheric, and geographical perspectives. Our research recognises that transition to more sustainable futures require a multi-disciplinary approach spanning expertise across the school.

• Space, place and social change

  Our research examines how major shifts in global and national societies are transforming people’s lives and spatial processes. Our scholarship is changing the way that social movements, governments, industries, and people think about space, place, and society.

Our research by discipline

• Geography

  We explore the connections between people and places, examining how our planet changes and how humans affect and respond to the world.

• Geoscience

  Geoscience investigates our dynamic planet, resources and subsequent environmental issues that create great challenges for the sustainable future of our society.

• Atmospheric science

  We study Earth's atmosphere, oceans and land surfaces to learn more about how they combine to influence temperatures, rainfall and other weather.