Areas of Research

Research in natural resources focuses on the origin, distribution and responsible use of Earth’s energy, mineral and water resources. Faculty and students examine geological controls on resource formation, extraction and sustainability, as well as environmental and societal considerations tied to resource development.

This work supports careers and research in energy, mining, water resources and environmental stewardship.

Human geography research explores spatial patterns of human activity and the relationships between people, places and environments. Topics include population dynamics, cultural landscapes, urban and rural development and place-based decision making.

Research in this area integrates qualitative and quantitative methods and emphasizes spatial thinking to better understand social and environmental challenges.

Environmental geosciences research examines interactions between physical processes, ecosystems and human activity. Faculty and students investigate environmental change, natural hazards, land and water systems and the impacts of climate and human development on Earth’s surface.

This research informs environmental management, hazard mitigation and sustainability planning.

Research in Earth and life through time focuses on understanding Earth’s history and the evolution of life across deep time. Studies integrate stratigraphy, paleontology, sedimentology and geochemistry to reconstruct past environments and biological change.

This work provides critical context for understanding present-day ecosystems and long-term environmental trends.

Geospatial sciences research applies geographic information systems, remote sensing, global positioning systems and spatial analysis to study natural and human systems. Faculty and students use spatial data to analyze patterns, model processes and support decision making across disciplines.

Applications range from environmental monitoring and land-use planning to resource management and urban analysis.

Geoscience education research focuses on how people learn Earth science and how teaching practices can improve student understanding and engagement. Faculty study instructional strategies, curriculum design and learning outcomes across formal and informal settings.

This research supports evidence-based teaching and efforts to broaden participation in the geosciences.

Solid Earth processes research investigates the physical and chemical dynamics of the Earth’s interior and surface. Topics include plate tectonics, earthquakes, volcanic systems, mountain building and rock deformation.

Researchers combine field observations, laboratory experiments and modeling to understand how solid Earth processes shape landscapes and influence surface environments over time.