About
Drawing on a range of scientific disciplines, we conduct innovative & interdisciplinary research that helps answer fundamental questions about our world. With exceptional faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and a collaborative environment, we offer students the opportunity to take on the most pressing issues of our time.
Welcome!
Our research and teaching covers topics ranging from earthquakes and volcanic eruptions to heat waves, floods, and droughts. At the heart of our work is the goal of understanding the fundamental processes that drive these natural phenomena and shape Earth’s systems. Our approach integrates insights from physics, chemistry, biology, statistics, and mathematics, and our focus areas span from Earth’s core to the stratosphere and onto other planets.
We hope you find this website helpful as you explore who we are and what we do. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need more information.
All the best,
Peter Huybers
Chair, Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences
phuybers@fas.harvard.edu
Our Mission
Our department is at the forefront of scientific discovery about the Earth system, helping to address pressing societal issues through research and education. We embrace our central role at the University as an integrator of the physical and life sciences, pure and applied, and seek to further strengthen our interactions with those that share a sense of stewardship for the Earth and the environment.
Our Values
The Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences (EPS) and the program in Environmental Science and Engineering (ESE) constitute a vibrant academic, professional, and social environment for those interested in the study of Earth and Planetary Sciences and Environmental Science and Engineering.
A healthy and positive work environment is an essential foundation for teaching, learning, and undertaking cutting-edge research. Where we work and how we interact with those around us are an important influence on the quality of our work. Having a diverse and inclusive community, where every member is valued and treated with respect, is a central goal. All members of our community should have a rewarding experience with equal opportunities for success.
To this end, a representative committee is in the process of soliciting community feedback to elaborate on how we uphold these values.
Join Us
Join the EPS community and take a look at our employment opportunities.
