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Welcome to the university of utah's

department of geology and geophysics

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

Photo of all faculty involved

New State-of-the-Art Mass Spectrometer.

The U of U's Department of Geology & Geophysics has been awarded a million-dollar grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to acquire state-of-the-art mass spectrometry instrumentation for measuring isotope ratios of heavier elements at the precision needed to perform cutting-edge research into Earth’s deep past.

misha the elephant

Utah geologists show how strontium isotopes found in teeth or tusks reveal where large plant-eating animals have roamed.

Teeth recovered from a beloved zoo elephant that died in 2008 are helping University of Utah geologists develop a method for tracking the movements of large herbivores across landscapes, even for animals now extinct, such as mastodons and mammoths.

A Climate Moon Shot Beneath Our Feet.

North Milford Valley, in western Utah, is home to dormant volcanoes, subterranean lava deposits, and smatterings of obsidian—black volcanic glass—that Paiute peoples once collected for arrowheads and jewelry. Scalding groundwater still bubbles to the surface in places.

students posing infront of their posters

Geology Students Showcase Their Research at the 25th Annual Rsearch on Capitol Hill Event.

Last week, a select group of students from the U of U,  Utah State, showcased their research to Utah state legislators and community members. This event offers a glimpse into the groundbreaking work happening in labs across the state and on the University of Utah campus.

 


 

 

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Students walking through confluence
Last Updated: 3/19/25