Research

The research of the department spans studies of the earth's deep interior, near-surface geology, the environment, Earth's oceans & atmosphere, and other terrestrial planets. Rich collaboration both internal and external to the department study the complex interactions in Earth systems and provide access to outstanding instrumentation and expertise. EOAS maintains active ties with industry partners, consulting firms and government labs. Our directory provides a comprehensive list of the individuals who realize EOAS world class research.

 Academics

EOAS offers the most science degree program specialization choices at UBC. Our fully accredited Geological Engineering program is highly regarded. Graduate education in EOAS is as diverse, rigorous, and respected. A large subset of our courses are offered as distance education. Our modern facilities, demanding curriculum, and award winning faculty place us among the most prominent Earth science departments in North America. Evidence based pedagogy is pioneered in EOAS through the Carl Wieman Science Education Initiative.

 History

The Department of Earth and Ocean Sciences formed in 1996 from faculty members from the former Departments of Geophysics and Astronomy, Geological Sciences, Oceanography. In 2006 the atmospheric scientists, who had been cross-appointed with Geography, became full-time faculty members. In 2012 the department name was changed to Department of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences (EOAS).

The Department has operated under the direction of four Heads of Department during its history: Robert Ellis (1996–2000), Paul Smith (2000 – 2009), Greg Dipple (2009 – 2014), and Roger Beckie (2014 – present).