E arth and environmental sciences The future is written in the past The Department of Earth Sciences at the University of Geneva addresses some of the fundamental issues facing humanity today. Professor Rossana Martini explains why their work is vital contributing to a better survival of humanity in the context of ongoing climate change.
Professor Rossana Martini
“G eological processes that have shaped the Earth represent major hazards for humanity,” says Professor Rossana Martini, director of the Department of Earth Sciences at the University of Geneva. “We use the deposits produced during recent events as a Rosetta Stone to interpret Earth history, the present as a key to the past and the past as a key to the future. "If we look at hurricanes, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes or water pollution, it is easier to understand and further picture human’s vulnerability to natural disasters and anthropogenic impact on the present world. Our mission is to understand feedbacks between the Earth and these environmental factors to mitigate natural hazards and develop a sustainable society. "The national and worldwide recognition of our department benefits from an interdisciplinary approach to develop new concepts and tools in economic geology, addressing the challenge of securing sustainable raw materials, both for now and future generations." This approach offers a unique opportunity in the field," says Prof Martini: “At the University of Geneva, Earth and environmental sciences are part of a
“The hospitable planet Earth, a unique feature in our solar system, can turn against us if we do not use resources in a
working with the GCB on the bid for the General Assembly of the International Union of Geodesy and Geophysics for 2023 and hope to succeed once again.” Live, work, invest For people in the Earth and environmental sciences sector, Geneva is a fantastic place to live, work and invest. “We are a welcoming human-sized city,” says Prof Martini, “Geneva offers a mix of intellectual stimulation and inspiring people in science and technology, enabling dialogue between science and society.” City of science Geneva has a unique density of science and cultural centres and hosts a vibrant scientific community producing knowledge through cutting-edge research. One of the oldest universities in Europe, Geneva University has more than 18,000 students from 150 countries and offers 290 degrees, including many domains of excellence in research including life sciences, physics of elementary particles, astrophysics and Earth and environmental sciences.
sustainable way” Professor Rossana Martini
single academic structure providing the main training centre on these subjects in western Switzerland. This is further supported by various research programmes aiming to develop new approaches and technologies promoting sustainable development and reducing the human
impact to global climate.” Meet in Geneva
The international exposure and scientific strengths of our department are attracting professionals to meet in Geneva, says Prof Martini. “In 2014 we organised the 19th International Sedimentological Congress, and co-organised the Gordon Research Conference in 2016. We are currently
2018 geneva XIII
Made with FlippingBook Online newsletter maker