Natural events show us how small we really are. When geological processes are at their most active we can easily see the value of geologic expertise, useful in predicting earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides, avalanches and other geological events that affect the human condition.

The Department of Geology and Mineral Resources Engineering (IGB) educates concerning the most important geological processes, focusing particularly on the significance of these geological processes and resources for society.

Our research procures knowledge that society needs concerning: oil, gas, coal, metals, clean drinking water, rock formations and bedrock, sand and gravel deposits, as well as minerals that can be refined through high-tech processes and used to produce valuable products. Land-use management is important to securing our natural resources for future generations, while advances in geology and rock mechanics are essential in tunnel construction and other building projects.

In addition to our own laboratories, we use nature itself as a lab, engaging students through inspiring fieldwork and excursions.