Welcome to Earth Sciences at Western

Earth Sciences is the science of the planet Earth. We seek to understand the Earth's internal structure and composition; its dynamic character (earthquakes, volcanoes, plate tectonics); the processes that occur within it; the processes that shape its surface and the materials that constitute its surface layers; the connections between Earth’s surface processes, climate and our environmental sustainability; the origin, occurrence, extraction and conservation of the Earth's natural resources (minerals, fossil fuels, soils, and water); the place of the Earth within the Solar System, and the history of life on Earth.

Western's Department of Earth Sciences is a close-knit and dynamic department combining cutting edge academic and applied research with strong mentorship and teaching at both the graduate and undergraduate level. Our graduates can be found in industry, academia and government across Canada and around the world. Come see us in the Biological and Geological Sciences Building to see what Earth Sciences has to offer.

Helping communities respond to climate change by understanding its impact on extreme weather

Western researchers are helping communities respond to climate change by studying its impact on extreme weather. Through world-class facilities, international partnerships, and advanced simulation and field research, this work—led by experts Girma Bitsuamlak, Greg Kopp, Katsu Goda, and Tsigereda Getachew Eshete—is paving the way for safer homes, climate-resilient cities, and coastlines protected against tsunamis.

Join President Alan Shepard and watch as he goes behind the research to see how Western experts are committed to building stronger, safer, and more sustainable communities.


Departmental Events

Weekly Colloquium will be held on Friday's at 1:30pm in BGS 0153