Introduction

The Department of Earth and Ocean Sciences was formed in spring 1996 by merger of the departments of Geophysics, Geological Sciences and Oceanography. Three atmospheric scientists joined EOS in the spring of 1999. The creation of the new unit stemmed from the realization that the limited size, physical separation and distinct curricula of the former departments presented subtle barriers that constrained research collaboration and that limited new initiatives in undergraduate and graduate teaching in critical scientific areas.

This report is the result of a process begun in 1999 and is subject to continuous revision in response to changing circumstances. First, a vision of the Department was distilled from our perception of the evolving frontiers of earth sciences and our obligations to the community. We specifically considered structure, new directions, the learning environment, technical facilities and support staff. From this exercise we assembled guidelines to be used when hiring new faculty or during the annual revision of the hiring plan. Finally, we developed our current hiring plan together with rationales that reflect our concept of the type of research and researchers needed to consolidate UBC's position as the best place in Canada for studying the Earth and its evolution.

Click here to see the complete (28 page) 10 Year Plan report in PDF format.

Click here to see the Equity Report for 2004 in PDF format.