CMES Earth - The University of Utah

Welcome to the department of geology & geophysics

As Geoscientists, we apply the principles of chemistry, physics, mathematics, and biology to understand the composition, structure, and history of the Earth and the processes that govern it. Our students use this knowledge to address societal needs and problems, such as locating and characterizing mineral, energy, and groundwater resources, assessing seismic and other geologic hazards, and evaluating and remediating environmental contamination.

DEPARTMENT RESEARCH & NEWSView all news

Dust in the Wind: How cities alter natural airborne particles

Salt Lake's locally sourced dust pollution carries far more hazardous elements than natural dust blown in from Great Basin.

Giving Day 2025

Please support Geology & Geophysics students and programs during the University of Utah's annual “Giving Day” campaign!

Our goal this year is 75 donors and $60,000+ dollars.

Students holding up certificates

2025 Geology and Geophysics Annual Spring Awards Luncheon

Wednesday, April 23rd, 2025 at 12:00 PM in Crocker Science Center Room 206

RSVP is required by April 16th

One FREE ticket per each GG student, faculty, and staff. Family & Friend tickets are $5 each. Please pay in CASH by April 18th in FASB 383

Decoding Mysterious Seismic Signals

U scientists track mysterious ‘speed bumps’ deep inside the Earth. “These are some of the most extreme features discovered on the planet. We legitimately do not know what they are,” says Michael Thorne, associate professor of geology and geophysics.