Ocean and earth science

A collection of corals from a deep reef in the Red Sea, shining in a rainbow of colours.

We’re a major European centre for oceanography and marine geoscience. We address key scientific questions to influence policy and practice whether we’re working at the summit of volcanoes or the depths of the ocean. Our interdisciplinary research environment offers excellent centres, groups and facilities.

Research highlights

Removing carbon from the atmosphere

Environment, sustainability and clean growth

A Southampton geochemist is carrying out research to speed up the removal of greenhouse gases from the atmosphere. It is receiving an explosion of international interest in the global bid to reduce carbon dioxide (CO₂ ) in the atmosphere and reach net zero.

A view of Earth from orbit, centred on the European continent.

Life's survival depended on luck

Space

A recent study gives a new perspective on why our planet has managed to stay habitable for billions of years – concluding it is almost certainly due, at least in part, to luck.

A wide shot of a storm surge barrier, with several wind turbines spinning in the background.

Protecting against rising sea levels

Engineering

Environment, sustainability and clean growth

Marine and maritime

Research led by Professor Ivan Haigh on storm surges, sea level rise and climate change is ensuring flood barriers are maintained and future-proofed to protect 30 million people.