The University of Leicester’s Earth Observation Science Group wrestles with some of the most important issues that the planet is facing. Whether analysing global warming, atmospheric carbon dioxide levels, air quality, tropical forest destruction or ozone holes, we’re busy shaping the response of UK and global bodies to the challenges of climate change and environmental quality.

Yet despite the high profile of the issues and complexity of the projects, this is far from being an ivory tower. Our scientists operate in multi-disciplinary teams that combine the talents of physicists, chemists and geographers with those of biologists, geologists and mathematicians. What’s more, our efforts bring great benefit to the wider community. For instance, data from the Leicester-led pioneering UK Advanced Along-Track Scanning Radiometer, which measures sea and land surface temperature, is used by the Met Office to forecast the weather.

Through our G-STEP programme we’re opening up access to earth observation data for everyone, providing organisations with a cutting-edge advantage in the knowledge economy. Alongside other colleagues we’re inspiring a new generation of young people in science through our involvement in major attractions such as the UK’s National Space Centre that receives around 200,000 visitors a year and the UK’s Space Academy for young people.

The range of influential positions that our scientists hold in international science teams and advisory bodies reflects the strong academic foundations of our work. But as we show, our high quality work is stronger for our engagement with the world beyond the University.

• Earth Observation Science Group
• G-STEP

<< Our commitment to high quality, innovation, and rigorous academic standards