Solving present societal and environmental challenges
Explore our research in environmental science, physical geography, engineering geology and natural and anthropogenic hazards
We study marine, freshwater and terrestrial environments, and the cryosphere to better understand the complex challenges facing our changing World. Through our expertise in sustainable development, management of natural resources, natural and anthropogenic hazards, engineering geology, and political economy, our research develops innovative solutions to these challenges, to enable the sustainable and equitable management of our planet.
Research groups and centres
Explore the work we’re doing in this area, learn more about our recent projects, the academic and industrial partners we’re collaborating with, and who our major funders are.
Centre for Applied Geosciences
At the Centre for Applied Geosciences at the University of Portsmouth, we investigate natural and manmade hazards and geo-heritage conservation. Find out more
Environmental processes and impacts research group
We're looking at the Earth's changing environment and the influence of human activity on climate and ecosystems.
Risk reduction and resilience research group
Discover how our research manages risk and is seeking more effective ways to build resilience.
Research facilities
Our research is supported by a range of specialist facilities used by staff and students. We also work regularly with visiting researchers and industry from around the world.
Environmental Chemistry Analysis Laboratory
Use the equipment in this lab to identify and analyse chemicals and biochemicals in surface water, groundwater and soil, so you can develop strategies to minimise and remove their harmful environmental effects.
Electron Microscopy and Microanalysis Unit
Gain expertise in high-magnification imaging and analysis of the chemical and physical structure of natural and manufactured materials.
Mass Spectrometry and Laser Ablation Laboratory
Investigate the geological and planetary processes that influence environment change and natural resource formation in this lab, using our industry standard spectrometers and laser ablation system.
Remote Sensing and Spectroscopy Laboratory
Learn how to use virtual reality to identify rocks and minerals using remote imaging and data processing techniques.
Geotechnics Laboratory
Our Geotechnics Laboratory – or Soils Lab – has equipment for analysing fine- and coarse-grained soils.
GIS and Remote Sensing Laboratory
Discover more about the planet's physical structures and scientific processes, such as glaciers and coastal flooding, using drone data, aerial and satellite remote sensing and geographic information systems.
Physical Geography and Meteorology Laboratories
Use the latest physical and meteorological equipment in our labs, including a rainfall simulator and automatic weather stations.
Institute of Marine Sciences
Explore the marine ecosystems of the Solent European Marine Site at our shoreside marine station, complete with floating research platform, £2 million aquarium and laboratory suite, and 2 research vessels, RV Calypso and RV Noctiluca.
