Geotop is an interuniversity centre of excellence in training and researching in the geoscience field. Geotop’s mission aims to understand geological processes that govern the dynamics of the Earth at different spatial and temporal scales via a systematic approach to the planet while integrating its unique expertise in isotope geochemistry and geochronology. The knowledge acquired, both fundamental and applied, aims to understand the Earth’s present, as well as to better grasp its future.
Geotop’s strategy to fulfill its mission includes 4 major components:
- Stimulating research into fundamental and applied geoscience questions relevant to address societal needs;
- Training high-level professionals who are capable of responding to complex problems relating to the sustainable development of the planet;
- Ensuring the transmission of knowledge to stakeholders in the private, public, and parapublic sectors to resolve concrete problems within the domains of natural resources, the environment, and natural hazards;
- Educating the public at large on diverse subjects relevant to Earth Sciences.
Work performed by members of Geotop are concerned with 3 overarching themes: (1) Past dynamics of the Earth system, (2) Natural resources, and (3) Natural hazards and anthropogenic pressures.