Research
The College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences is built on a foundation of outstanding research faculty who work together to solve today's complex, interdisciplinary environmental challenges. Our research covers the entire spectrum of Earth system science, including basic research on physical, chemical and biological processes in the solid Earth, ocean and atmosphere. We work to connect our research to societal issues, including climate change, natural hazards, water resources policy, and management of natural resources. Whether we are providing insights into the complex controls on our climate, gathering data that can inform fisheries management, or studying the human dimensions of natural resource management initiatives, we strive to solve problems that face Oregon, the nation and the world.
Research Groups, Institutes, and Facilities
Undergraduate Research
Seminars and Lectures
Research Focus Areas
Oceanography
Our oceanography program, among the best in the world, spans physical oceanography, paleooceanography, nearshore science, elemental cycles and food webs.
The Geosphere
Our geology and geophysics faculty study a range of Earth system processes to understand our dynamic planet using advanced analytical facilities, modeling, field work and more.
Atmospheric Sciences
Our atmospheric sciences research, which is often tied to investigating the Earth’s climate system, employs a variety of methods, from field work to numerical modeling to lab work.
Hazards
Whether abrupt threats such as coastal storms or the slow creep of sea-level rise, we undertake rigorous, interdisciplinary study of hazards and the human response to them to help build resilient communities.
Water
Faculty in this research area are taking a watershed view of today’s toughest water resource challenges — drought and disaster risk, disappearing snowpack, diplomacy between shared basins and more.
Geography and Geospatial Science
Geography researchers in our college are on the forefront of understanding the Earth's environments, landscapes, people and places.
Cryosphere
Studies of icy and snowy landscapes are inextricably linked with learning about our climate system— past, present and future. Our cryosphere scientists work locally and globally examining ancient ice cores, glacial melting, and controls on snowfall.
Past Climates
We use a range of proxies to reconstruct the Earth’s ancient climate, from mud to ice to shells of single-celled organisms. This dive into the past can help us understand the Earth’s present and future climates.
Disciplines
Our faculty are organized into four discipline areas, but frequently work on interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary projects across these divisions.