We study planet Earth. We are motivated by the need to solve current global challenges, such as the state of the atmosphere, greenhouse gases, energy and resource sustainability, and life beyond our planet.
We investigate rocks, oceans and the atmosphere by using physics, chemistry, mathematics, geology and geospatial science to observe and understand how our planet transformed and how life evolved. We use this knowledge to explore other planets and their habitability.
We have a particular research focus on:
- earth evolution
- natural resources
- climate, including atmospheric composition and change
- environmental challenges, including air quality, reef restoration and energy transition
- natural hazards, including landslides and volcanism
- planetary surfaces.
Award-winning researchers
Dr Catherine Kim was awarded the 2023 Qld Women in STEM Prize for her research into coral rubble, using statistical models and machine learning to assist in maintaining the health of the Great Barrier Reef. Dr Kim is also the coordinator for the Geospatial Information Science unit in our Bachelor of Science course. Watch the 2 minute video to learn more about Dr Kim's research.
Our research partnerships
We're working with you to find solutions to your problems. Reach result through a collaborative partnership with our experienced research experts who make active contributions to their fields.
Our facilities
Learning and teaching experience
Our courses provide students with hands-on skills and field experiences using state-of-the-art laboratories, real-world industry examples and methods.
Our staff
- Position
- Australian Laureate Fellow
- Division / Faculty
- School of Earth & Atmospheric Sciences
- Research fields
- Atmospheric sciences
- Environmental engineering
- Environmental management
- l.morawska@qut.edu.au
- Position
- Head of School, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences
- Division / Faculty
- School of Earth & Atmospheric Sciences
- Research fields
- Physical geography and environmental geoscience
- Archaeology
- Environmental management
- p2.moss@qut.edu.au
- Position
- Professor
- Division / Faculty
- School of Earth & Atmospheric Sciences
- Research fields
- Geochemistry
- Analytical chemistry
- Geology
- cm.allen@qut.edu.au
- Position
- Professor
- Division / Faculty
- School of Earth & Atmospheric Sciences
- Research fields
- Geology
- Geochemistry
- Physical geography and environmental geoscience
- scott.bryan@qut.edu.au
- Position
- Professor in Climate, Environment & Sustainability and University Research Centre Director
- Division / Faculty
- School of Earth & Atmospheric Sciences
- jacky.croke@qut.edu.au
- Position
- Professor in Petrology
- Division / Faculty
- School of Earth & Atmospheric Sciences
- Research fields
- Geochemistry
- Geology
- Physical geography and environmental geoscience
- balz.kamber@qut.edu.au
News and events
Magnificent seven: Meet our New Colombo Plan scholars for 2025
Seven QUT students have been awarded prestigious New Colombo Plan Scholarships by the Australian Government to study overseas in 2025 and do internships and language training in their host country.
Breakthrough brings body-heat powered wearable devices closer to reality
A QUT-led research team has developed an ultra-thin, flexible film that could power next-generation wearable devices using body heat, eliminating the need for batteries.
QUT awarded $9.87 million in ARC Discovery grants
QUT is celebrating the award of $9.87 million ARC Discovery grants to fund 16 projects.
Contact us
Contact the School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences for more information on our courses, research and staff.