PhD in Geosciences

Program Overview

The UMass Amherst PhD in Geosciences program offers a comprehensive research-intensive experience that trains students for successful careers in academia, industry, or government. The program emphasizes a collaborative, non-hierarchical environment where students receive mentorship, leadership opportunities, and training in field, laboratory, and numerical techniques. The department conducts internationally renowned research on Earth processes, global change, and human geography. Graduates are well-prepared to make significant contributions to the field of Geosciences.

Program Outline

• Establish graduate training and research: The department strives to be among the top Earth and environmental science research departments in the country, conducting nationally and internationally recognized research across various geoscience disciplines.
• Train students for productive careers: The program provides innovative teaching and mentoring, along with opportunities for participation in cutting-edge research activities, preparing students for careers in industry, academia, and government.
• Connect with the broader UMass and scientific community: The department fosters research collaborations and engagement with the broader scientific community, focusing on Earth processes, global change, and human geography.
The department emphasizes a collegial environment without an imposing hierarchy, providing students with training opportunities in field, laboratory, and numerical approaches. Many graduate students and postdocs take on leadership roles in planning and organization, and the department prioritizes science communication and outreach.

Teaching:

• Faculty Mentoring: The department has a strong track record of faculty mentoring and professional development.
• Training Opportunities: Students receive training in a wide range of field, laboratory, and numerical approaches.
• Leadership Roles: Graduate students and postdocs are encouraged to take on leadership roles in planning and organization.
• Science Communication and Outreach: The department emphasizes science communication and outreach.

Careers:

• Career Placement: The department has a strong track record of career placement.
• Career Paths: Graduates are prepared for careers in industry, academia, and government.

Other:

• Research Focus: The department conducts internationally recognized research on Earth processes, global change, and human geography.
• Departmental Culture: The department prides itself on being collegial and without an imposing hierarchy.