Stockholm university
Department of Physical Geography

Research subjects

We teach and research natural geography, a broad field of science about the earth's physical and biological phenomena, their properties, processes, patterns and interactions with humans.

We study linked physical, chemical, biological, geological, environmental and societal processes and changes in the world's land areas and their water, ice and geological formations, climate systems and ecosystems, in relation to each other and to human societies.

Our research and education include: spatial analyzes of phenomena and their development over time; area studies of different places and regions; studies of relationships and complexity in linked natural-social systems; and studies of global change and the Earth system as a whole. The studies deal with, for example, changes in land formations, glaciers and permafrost, ecosystems and biodiversity, soil, water and other natural resources and environmental aspects, as well as their interactions with the climate and various societal developments, such as urbanization.

Research

Our research areas

Lake in Jämtland with a view of Sylarna, northern Sweden. Photo: Stefano Manzoni.

Physical Geography

Physical Geography, a wide-ranging scientific field dealing with the diverse physical and biological features of Earth, their characteristics, processes, patterns and interactions with humans.

Research subjects

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Field work in Arctic, Salajiegna calving glacier front. Photo Eva Gylfe.

Geomorphology and Glaciology

Geomorphology and glaciology research focus on Earth surface processes and their effects on landforms, landscapes, environment, and society in a wide range of settings - from the north and south polar regions to the subtropical climate zones.

Drones are used to survey landscapes. Photo Mark Ghaly.

Landscape, Environment and Geomatics

Landscape, Environment and Geomatics includes landscapes, ecosystems and socio-ecological systems. The research is often interdisciplinary and includes different data types and methods, including fieldwork, experiments, modeling and remote sensing.