University of Oxford, Department of Earth Sciences

The Earth Sciences are the focus of scientific understanding about this and other planets, embracing an enormous range of topics, including the evolution of the solar system, the earth, and life, the nature of planetary interiors, the causes of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, earth-surface processes and the origin and behaviour of oceans and atmosphere. The emphasis of both our teaching and research is on understanding the fundamental principles of geological processes. Theory, measurements, experiments, and observation of natural processes are all essential elements in the Earth Sciences, and students with a strong background in all aspects of the physical sciences are encouraged to join the Department.