Geophysical research at the AWI investigates the subsurface in the polar regions, from the ice to the seafloor to the Earth's mantle. The aim is to better understand the role of the polar regions in climatic and tectonic processes on short and long time scales. Research focuses on areas in the Arctic and sub-Arctic, the Arctic Ocean, the Southern Ocean and Antarctica. The studies include reconstructions of ice sheet dynamics, oceanic circulation and tectonic processes that influenced longterm climate development. We investigate the interaction of tectonic and magmatic processes at submarine and subaerial volcanic systems.

We use geophysical methods such as seismics, seismology, hydro acoustics, gravimetry and magnetics, as well as rock physics on sediment cores. We are experts in acquiring data in the harsh environmental conditions of the polar regions on land, water and air. Our results are used for example in numerical modelling to gain deeper insights into climatic changes and environmental processes.