Earth Sciences Cardiff University

Overview

Underpinned by substantial external funding, the School of Earth and Environmental Sciences vibrant research environment provides the students in the  Earth Sciences programme at Cardiff University  with opportunities to work with world experts and use high-quality research equipment.

Key Features

Each year approximately 15 students are recruited for PhD degrees, who benefit from participating in teaching exercises, School activities and essential skills-training experiences. In the Research Excellence Framework, 94% of our School of Earth and Environmental Sciences’ research outputs were deemed ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’.

Distinctive features

Our facilities and equipment underpin research in all branches of Earth and Environmental Sciences.

From the latest analytical techniques to a coastal research vessel, our facilities support research and teaching activities within the School. These include:

• 3D seismic laboratory - We use high-resolution, industry-sourced seismic data and cutting-edge analytical and interpretive techniques to address a wide ranging of research questions.

• Electron microbeam facility- Our microscope can be used to image objects such as minerals and microfossils at a magnification far exceeding the capabilities of an optical microscope.

• Terrestrial laser scanner- Offering superior measurement capability in adverse atmospheric conditions.

• RV Guiding Light - Our coastal research vessel enables us to better understand marine issues, from sea level rise through coastal erosion and management.

• Palaeoclimate and climate systems facility- Our Palaeoclimate and climate systems facility can offer high precision trace element and stable isotope analyses in a range of natural materials.

Career prospects

The graduates go on to undertake a wide variety of employment routes. Some take up post-doctoral positions in the UK and overseas, whilst others take up positions in the oil and minerals industries throughout many parts of the world.