Department of Marine Geosciences

Research tasks

Our geological research focuses on the post-glacial environmental history and the evolution of sedimentary systems in the Baltic Sea. We investigate biogeochemical transformation processes and fluxes of matter in the Baltic Sea basin and its sediments to assess their impact on the Baltic Sea ecosystem. We also conduct geophysical surveys to better understand the geological structures of the subsurface and the characteristics of the seafloor, including its shallow-water habitats.

Geographical research addresses aspects such as the consequences of human activities, interventions and measures, the implementation of coastal and marine policy as well as impacts of and adaptation to coastal and marine changes.

Research is carried out in the field, in experiments and through modeling. Comparative research also takes place in other selected coastal seas. Additionally, the department contributes to the national sedimentological mapping in the German Baltic Sea and addresses society-relevant research.