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
- Geology
- Geochemistry
- Physical geography and environmental geoscience
- scott.bryan@qut.edu.au
- Position
- Professor
- Division / Faculty
- School of Earth & Atmospheric Sciences
- Research fields
- Geophysics
- Geochemistry
- Geology
- craig.oneill@qut.edu.au
- Position
- Professor
- Division / Faculty
- School of Earth & Atmospheric Sciences
- Research fields
- Atmospheric sciences
- Climate change impacts and adaptation
- Climate change science
- z.ristovski@qut.edu.au
- Position
- Associate Professor
- Division / Faculty
- School of Earth & Atmospheric Sciences
- Research fields
- Geology
- Aerospace engineering
- Astronomical sciences
- david.flannery@qut.edu.au
News and events
Building the nation’s future: universities dominate national awards
The academic community of Australia has strengthened its presence in this year’s King’s Birthday 2026 Honours List in a powerful reminder of the impact of higher education on Australia’s future.
Countdown on for student satellite space launch in Sweden
It’s a nail-biting week for a team of QUT students who are counting down to their palm-sized satellite being blasted into space aboard Swedish sounding rocket SubOrbital Express-5 after its launch window opens this Thursday at 8.01am AEST.
Seven ARC Linkage projects receive more than $3.6 million funding
QUT is celebrating the success of seven ARC Linkage Projects 2025 Round 2 applications totalling $3,668,784.
Contact us
Contact the School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences for more information on our courses, research and staff.