research areas
Covering all areas of scientific endeavour, from astrophysics to climate change, science communication to theoretical chemistry, scientists at ANU use their skills to contribute to advancing science for the future of the world.
To categorise these activities is difficult to say the least. The areas listed here are broad headings, and the tip of the iceberg in regards to the research projects and activities we engage in.
Indigenous research and innovation
Indigenous research activities and how our Indigenous academics and students are contributing to science.
Astronomy & astrophysics
The ANU Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics (RSAA) operates Australia’s largest optical observatory and has access to the world’s largest optical telescopes.
Biology
The ANU Research School of Biology (RSB) is internationally recognised for its high-impact research in plant sciences, evolution, ecology, genetics, parasitology and biotechnology.
Chemistry
The ANU Research School of Chemistry has an enviable reputation as a powerhouse of chemical research, attracting leading chemists from around the country and overseas.
Earth & marine sciences
The ANU Research School of Earth Sciences is Australia’s leading academic research institution for Earth sciences, home to the largest concentration of Earth scientists in Australia, and ranked 12th in the world for Earth and marine sciences (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2016).
Environment & sustainability
The ANU Fenner School of Environment and Society is one of the few places where economists and hydrologists, historians and ecologists, foresters, geographers, political scientists and climatologists work together on the environmental challenges and opportunities facing us.
Mathematics
The ANU Mathematical Sciences Institute is ranked number one in Australia for maths teaching and research (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2016) and our staff include some of the best mathematicians in Australia.
Physics
The ANU Research School of Physics and Engineering constitutes Australia’s largest university-based physics research activity, incorporating major national facilities, national networks, a significant technical manufacturing and prototyping capability, as well as an innovative teaching program.
Science communication
The Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science at ANU was the first science communication centre in Australia and is now the most diverse of its kind in the world.
