"Earth and Planetary Sciences" text placed on top of a decorative photo collage of the five main UC Davis EPS research disciplines.

Our Vision and Mission Statement

Together we create and share knowledge at the forefront of Earth and Planetary Sciences to cultivate informed stewardship and inspire curiosity.

We provide a world-class, stimulating intellectual and educational environment that prioritizes people. As a community we are committed to conducting cutting-edge research in Earth and Planetary Sciences to address challenging scientific and societal problems.

View our Strategic Plan

Department News

Ph.D. student Claris Sunjo stands by water

Claris Sunjo Recipient of AAUW International Master's Degree Fellowship

We are excited to share that Claris Sunjo, a Ph.D. student in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences has been selected as a recipient of an American Association of University Women's International Master's/First Professional Degree Fellowship! Sunjo is also a graduate teaching assistant and research assistant at UC Davis. Her research work focuses on the Tropical Wouri Estuary in Douala, Cameroon, which broadens the understanding of carbon and nutrient cycling, and estuarine acidification in the estuary.

Mikayla Deigan stands in front of an open landscape

Mikayla Deigan Awarded NSF Graduate Research Fellowship

We are pleased to share that Mikayla Deigan, a senior geology student in the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences has been awarded a prestigious National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship! Out of 12,000 applicants each year, only 2,000 receive this esteemed recognition. With over 72 years of history, NSF has awarded 46,500 students, drawing from a pool of over 500,000 applicants.

An empty lecture hall

Job Opening: Visiting Assistant Professor in Geology and Paleobiology

The Department of Earth & Planetary Sciences at the University of California, Davis, invites applications for a Visiting Assistant Professor to teach undergraduate courses and conduct research during the 2024-2025 academic year. Candidates must possess a Ph.D. or equivalent degree in Paleobiology, Geosciences or a related field. Preference will be given to candidates who have a background in the fields of both Geology and Paleobiology.
Davis A. Gold

meet

David Gold

I was trained as a biologist, but I have always had a keen interest in the fossil record. Over time I have found that the information hidden in DNA can help address debates that have vexed paleontology and geochemistry.

i am a molecular paleontologist.
Isabel Montanez in her lab sitting at a table doing research.

meet

Isabel Montañez

I study ancient climates and how the Earth system responded to climate change. Our study of ancient climates provides insight into how rainfall patterns, surface temperatures, and ecosystems will respond to future warming.

i am a paleoclimatologist.