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 Petrology
- Division / Faculty
- School of Earth & Atmospheric Sciences
- Research fields
- Geochemistry
- Geology
- Physical geography and environmental geoscience
- balz.kamber@qut.edu.au
- Position
- Professor
- Division / Faculty
- School of Earth & Atmospheric Sciences
- Research fields
- Atmospheric sciences
- Environmental engineering
- Environmental management
- z.ristovski@qut.edu.au
News and events
Future starts now for first-years
First-year students Kennedy Meddows, Jasmine Butler and Zoe Madden are starting university with an added advantage after getting to know QUT while at high school.
QUT scientists develop groundbreaking biosensor for rare earth element detection
QUT synthetic biologists have developed a prototype for an innovative biosensor that can detect rare earth elements and be modified for a range of other applications.
Dr Katrina Wruck named 2025 Young Australian of the Year
Dr Katrina Wruck, QUT research fellow in industrial chemistry and lecturer in the School of Chemistry and Physics who advocates for the power of green chemistry has been named the 2025 Young Australian of the Year.
Contact us
Contact the School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences for more information on our courses, research and staff.