The sub-department's research focuses on the study of physical processes in the atmospheres and oceans of the Earth and other planets, using experimental and theoretical techniques. We have about 70 members, including 10 permanent academic or research staff, about 20 post-doctoral researchers and senior visitors, and about 30 graduate students.

On the experimental side we develop space instruments for infrared remote sensing of the structure and composition of planetary atmospheres, especially the Earth's stratosphere and mesosphere. More than ten of these instruments have been launched, either into Earth orbit or to other planets; several new space experiments are under development, including Earth-orbiting instruments to investigate global change, and missions to Mercury, Venus and Mars. Extensive overseas and domestic collaborations are involved, with industrial and scientific centres in Europe and the USA.

We are an important centre for theoretical atmospheric and oceanic modelling. Our climate dynamics group studies the large-scale behaviour of the atmosphere-ocean system and its response to external drivers such as the increases in greenhouse gas levels responsible for anthropogenic climate change. Other modelling of the Earth's atmosphere focuses on large-scale dynamical and chemical-transport processes relevant to climate, and on the interpretation of our satellite data. We also use dynamical models of other planets, including Mars and Jupiter, to interpret existing data and help plan new observational missions.