Research activities
We undertake multidisciplinary research to tackle major questions about the formation and evolution of Earth and other planets.
Key research is highlighted by six themes:
Earth surface processes
We investigate the growth and destruction of topography as a function of the interaction of plate tectonics and how the climate is central to our understanding of how landscapes form and evolve over geological time.
Formation and evolution of the crust
Our researchers study the formation and evolution of the crust - from ancient remnants to crust still forming today, and how later tectonics, orogeny, and metamorphism have altered it using a wide range of geochemical and geophysical techniques.
Magmatic processes and mantle dynamics
Magmatism forms part of our research from its origins in the lower or upper mantle to how its water content affects its eventual eruption's dynamics and explosivity.
Observation, imaging, and interpretation
Across geosciences, it is crucial to observe, record and interpret data about the natural world. Our group develops novel methods to interrogate the natural world to understand its structure and dynamics and explore the implications of our findings.
Simulating planetary interiors
A range of experimental and modelling techniques are used by our researchers to simulate and study planetary interiors and to characterise the processes by which planets first formed and by which they continue to evolve.
Seismogenic Earth
Our group investigates how the fragile outer layer of the Earth deforms at multiple scales, from microscopic fractures to large faults and earthquakes.