The research foci of the section Geophysics comprise Opening of Continents, Opening and Closure of Ocean Basins as well as Modifications of the Seafloor amongst others. New insight into these processes are needed to better understand the system EARTH and contribute to a better perception of e.g. release mechanisms of natural hazards and the formation of ore deposits. Furthermore, the knowledge about processes of past and present climate changes is increased, and the understanding of the climate system raised and base parameters for a reliable climate projection of the future are provided. Questions regarding the influence of geodynamic-tectonic processes on environmental conditions form the focus to allow conclusions on the development of the glaciation of the polar regions during the past 70 million years.

Data documenting the origin and development of tectonic, magmatic, and sedimentary processes and the resulting environmental changes are needed to answer those questions. The study of structure of the crust and the upper mantle of the earth and accretionary processes of polar and subpolar continental margins, spreading ridges, and magmatic provinces allows the reconstruction of mechanisms active during opening and drift of continental plates, formation and modification of oceanic crust, and modification of regional palaeo-circulation. Palaeo-topography and dynamic modifications of the seafloor strongly affect the pathways of the oceanic circulation and the evolution and dynamic of ice sheets, which form a key component in the long-term simulation of palaeo-climate and sealevel. Sediment transport, erosion, and deposition form important documents. Additionally, the collected data and information form the base for new IODP/ICDP drill proposals.