Department of Earth Sciences

Department of Earth Sciences

Advancing knowledge of the Earth, environment and climate – from deep time to our planetary future – to empower humanity in building a more resilient world.

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Understanding the planet for a sustainable future

Our research and teaching deepens understanding of our planet and equips students to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

More about what we do Meet our researchers

Study with us

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Find out about our Earth Sciences course, offered through the Natural Sciences Tripos

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Explore our range of taught and research-led Masters courses

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PhD opportunities

Information about our PhD opportunities, and how to apply

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Our research

We work at the intersection between scientific disciplines to tackle global challenges, from natural hazards to future energy and sustainable resources.

Our people Research themes Research facilities

News

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8 Oct 2026

Rise of collagen-eating microbes may help explain gaps in the fossil record

Photo showing fossils on a flat grey rock surface

5 Oct 2026

2026 AGU awards to Department members

Two photos: on left showing a man in a lab and on right a man stood in a cave

1 Oct 2026

Blog: From Magma to Magnets 2026 fieldwork

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16 Sep 2026

A star is born: half billion-year-old fossil rewrites the origin story of starfish

Illustration show an ocean seabed. Two pink fossils, shaped like vases with branching arms are attached to the seabed.

10 Sep 2026

One of the oldest known 3D animal fossils found in Norwegian sheep field

Photo montage showing close up of fossil on left and field on right, with sheep standing in front of rock outcrop

27 Aug 2026

Professor Marie Edmonds appointed Head of the School of Physical Sciences

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Get involved

Apply for a research fellowship

Visit the Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences

Support us with a donation

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Stay connected

Upcoming talks and seminars Connect with us on LinkedIn Follow our updates on Instagram Information for our alumni community