Finding solutions to the critical problems in the natural environment requires talented scientists committed to pushing frontiers. Individuals with the knowledge, skill and curiosity to apply the principles of physics and mathematics in new ways.

Our Department of Meteorology, part of the School of Mathematical, Physical and Computational Sciences, brings together a diverse and gifted community of meteorologists, physicists, mathematicians and computational scientists; experts in weather, climate, atmospheric and space physics, oceanography, hydrology, renewable energy and Earth observation.

"Our subject is an amazing branch of physics and mathematics. It is both fascinating and incredibly important - it is central to our future on this planet."

Sir Brian Hoskins CBE, FRS (Former Head of Meteorology, University of Reading)

We are united by a passion to explore how physics and mathematics may be best applied to provide solutions to critical issues in the natural environment. Our ground-breaking scientific research is extending knowledge and understanding and, through our teaching, we are training a new generation of scientists to think differently. Whether you study one of our degree courses, join our team or collaborate with us, you will be part of a world-leading Department intent on making a positive difference to the natural environment.

LATEST UPDATES FROM THE DEPARTMENT

• Modelling Dust Extremes Over East Asia
• Using measurements of cloud ice to evaluate frozen particle scattering models
• Projected longer dry spells under climate change occur during dry seasons not wet seasons
• From Falling Paper Strips, Tossed Coins To Settling Snowflakes
• Data assimilation under dramatic growth of observational data and rapid advances in computer performance

Making a global impact

We are world leaders for research in atmospheric, ocean and climate science:

• The University is ranked 2nd in the world for research in Meteorology and Atmospheric Sciences[1]
• Ranked 4th in the UK for research power in Earth Systems and Environmental Sciences[2]
• Ranked 7th in the UK for Earth and Marine Sciences[3]

We are the UK's only dedicated university meteorology department. By choosing to study or work with us you will join one of the largest academic communities of atmospheric, ocean and space physicists in the world. 

Our Department is a dynamic environment, where you can learn from and work with internationally recognised research and teaching staff, including five Fellows of the Royal Society and climate experts who contribute to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

Professor Ed Hawkins, of our Department, was appointed an MBE for services to climate science and science communication, in the New Year's Honours List 2019.

Our research 

Established links with industry

We have long-established relationships with commercial and governmental organisations within the meteorological, climate and related sectors. These national and international relationships range from individual student projects to multi-year commercial research programmes.

We work with renowned institutions such as the UK Met Office, the Environment Agency, NASA, the European Centre for Medium-range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF), the World Meteorological Organization, the European Space Agency, the National Centre of Atmospheric Science and the Institute for Environmental Analytics.

We also have established links with commercial industries within the power, utilities, transport, space, education, agriculture and health sectors.

Our industry partners collaborate in the delivery of some of our taught modules, enabling our students to learn from professionals in the field and gain insight into a variety of potential sectors, organisations and roles for their future career. This approach also enables us to ensure that the courses we offer are professionally relevant.

[1] Latest World University Rankings by Subject, Center for World University Rankings, 2017.

[2] Research Fortnight's Analysis Power Rankings, 2014, based on its analysis of Research Excellence Framework 2014.

[3] The Guardian University Guide, 2022.