Research Programme
The aim of our Earth Systems Engineering research is to develop a new generation of integrated methods for analysis and decision making within complex coupled technological, human and natural systems under conditions of long term change and often severe uncertainty. In pursuit of this aim our integrated programme of research is structured around six themes:
Links to theme text below relate to the blocks in this diagram
Theme A provides quantified evidence of the climate drivers of long term change, which are combined with high resolution monitoring and spatial datasets (Theme B) in order to parameterise new system simulations (Theme C). Fundamental to system simulation and decision making is the treatment of uncertainty (Theme D). Evidence from Themes A to D is communicated and used to support decision making in Theme E. Theme F implements major system-scale case studies in order to test, demonstrate and integrate our methods. Whilst Theme F is the culmination of the research, it also interacts continuously with the other themes, so testing and demonstration can stimulate new ideas and approaches.
The novelty of the research programme is derived not only from the innovations in the six themes but significantly also by virtue of their fusion within a systems framework in support of decision making. Our existing funding and future project plans are intended to implement this research programme.