The research focus of the department extends from pure science studies of the earth's
deep interior, through near-surface geological studies and environmental earth science,
to the oceans and atmosphere. To realize their research objectives, UBC earth scientists
draw on a broad base of knowledge from the basic sciences of chemistry, physics, biology
and mathematics. An integrated approach is increasingly required to understand the
complex interactions due to human impact on the earth in such problems as climate
change, resource exploitation and waste disposal. One specialized group is the Mineral
Deposit Research Unit (MDRU) which undertakes programs supported by the mineral exploration
industry.
