- Faculty of Environment
- School of Earth and Environment
- Research and innovation
- Institute of Geophysics and Tectonics
Institute of Geophysics and Tectonics
Institute of Geophysics and Tectonics
Our research is dedicated to understanding the structure and evolution of Earth from core to surface. We study deep-Earth structure and dynamics, including the generation of Earth’s magnetic field, along with deformation and lithospheric processes in both the continents and oceans, with a strong focus on rheology, geochemistry, fluid-rock interaction and rates of processes. We use this knowledge to assess earthquake and volcanic hazards, and to better understand the evolution of other planets.
Our research is multidisciplinary spanning seismology, numerical modelling, geophysical surveying, geodesy, metamorphic petrology, high end microscopy and laboratory analysis, which is organised across the research groups below:
Deep Earth >
Geodynamics and Tectonics >
Planetary Exploration >
Rocks, Melts and Fluids >
Volcanology >
We maintain a diverse network of collaborations within the School, the University and at national and international level. Our members lead international research collaborations, organise and contribute to international workshops, convene thematic sessions at international conferences, and participate in panels and committees responsible for research strategy and policy.
We have extensive links with industry, including University spin-off companies such as GETECH, Rock Deformation Research and SatSense, and most of the major oil, gas and service companies.
If you would like to discuss an area of research in more detail please contact the Institute Director: Dr Phil Livermore.
Research degrees
Whether you’re looking to begin an academic career or want to develop your skills and expertise for a career in industry, studying for a PhD will be a journey that will stimulate your passion for your subject and push you to reach your potential.
We have PhD opportunities available including a number of scholarships and funded projects.
Honour for outstanding geodynamics researcher
Dr Timothy Craig – Royal Society University Research Fellow in the School…
More on Honour for outstanding geodynamics researcherRoyal Society Fellowship honours
Two prominent Leeds figures have been elected as Fellows of the prestigious…
More on Royal Society Fellowship honoursMeteorite analysis reveals new information about water on Mars
Researchers from the School of Earth and Environment were part of an…
More on Meteorite analysis reveals new information about water on MarsTug-of-war drives magnetic north sprint
As far as we know, Earth’s magnetic north has always wandered, but it has…
More on Tug-of-war drives magnetic north sprint“There is also IGT representation at the Living Planet Symposium this week including a talk by Phil Livermore on 'Hi… t.co/kRcppBItyZ” -
About 17 hours ago
“Don't forget to join @GeoKevW who will be presenting 'Petrological evidence for focussed mid-crustal magma intrusio… t.co/HM1BRz7mNY” -
About 18 hours ago
“There is lots of @IGTLeeds activity this week at the @EuroGeosciences General Assembly including The GD Division Ou… t.co/cqGTHCzOfL” -
About 18 hours ago