Geophysics

At Stanford Geophysics, we study Earth and other planets—from their deep interiors to the crust and lithosphere, oceans, ice, groundwater, and atmospheres. While our research combines field and laboratory observations, geophysical imaging and remote sensing, experiments, data analysis, and computational and theoretical modeling, it is unified by a foundation in fundamental physical principles.

Our students and faculty are driven both by curiosity about our planet and its place in the solar system, as well as the need to address urgent societal challenges. Our work reveals the processes shaping planetary interiors and surfaces; supports exploration of Earth and space; develops tools to characterize and access resources; and strengthens our ability to anticipate and respond to climate and environmental change, severe weather, earthquakes, volcanoes, and other natural hazards. We are unified by our deep commitments to scientific discovery and to making the world a safer, more resilient, and sustainable place.

Academic Programs

The Department of Geophysics offers academic pathways designed to equip students with strong foundations in physical sciences, computational modeling, and field observations:

• Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Geophysics: Designed for undergraduates interested in applying physics and mathematics to real-world planetary problems. The program emphasizes field-based learning, computational data analysis, and independent research.

• Coterminal Master’s Program: Allows qualified Stanford undergraduates to integrate their bachelor's degree with a Master of Science (M.S.) in Geophysics, accelerating their path toward professional careers or doctoral research.

• Graduate Programs (M.S., Ph.D., and Ph.D. Minor): Specialized, research-focused graduate curricula leading to Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees. Graduate students collaborate closely with faculty mentors to design and execute original, high-impact research projects.

Core Research Areas and Societal Impact

Research in the department spans several critical scientific and societal frontiers, utilizing field experiments, satellite remote sensing, laboratory testing, and high-performance computing:

• Seismology and Natural Hazards: Advancing earthquake seismology, earthquake mechanics, and crustal deformation monitoring to improve public safety and structural resilience.

• Geomechanics: Investigating how physical properties of rocks change under varying temperatures and pressures to optimize geothermal energy extraction, monitor subsurface carbon sequestration (CCS), and analyze tectonic faults.

• Environmental and Hydrogeophysics: Using electromagnetic, seismic, and radar imaging to map shallow groundwater aquifers, evaluate soil contamination, and support environmental engineering efforts.

• Atmospheric Dynamics, Cryosphere, and Oceans: Using radio-glaciology, satellite radar, and computational models to study polar ice sheet dynamics, sea-level rise, as well as advanced computational and analytical models to study the dynamics of earth’s atmosphere. 

• Planetary Sciences: Using lunar and meteorite paleomagmatism, satellite and mission radars to, and impact cratering to understand earth and other planets.