Learn about our research

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Vision and aims >>

Research groups >>

Factsheets>>

Climate system components >>

Atmosphere

Hydrosphere - Ocean

Hydrosphere - Rivers and Lakes

Biosphere

Cryosphere

Land surface

Human systems

World-class capabilities >>

Observations

Modelling

Our research – both fundamental and integrated

We are addressing fundamental questions in understanding and predicting our changing climate and its impacts over seasons, decades and beyond across a range of applications.

Our research aims to:

• To enhance understanding of the fundamental processes that govern the climate system and how it changes. See example>>
• To improve predictions of climate on a range of timescales; develop better climate models and explore weather and climate extremes. See example>>
• To assess the impacts and consequences of climate change for adaptation and mitigation. For example in sectors such as crops and the built environment.

Renowned research groups

The Walker Institute is composed of a number of internationally renowned research groups from across the University of Reading which cover a wide range of expertise: meteorology, oceanography, agriculture, geography, hydrology, ecosystem processes and soil science.

Integrating disciplines

We are pioneering a new approach to climate science which exploits and integrates this wide range of climate expertise.

Listen to podcasts about our research

View films about our research

Climate change How will research at Reading help us to adapt to our changing climate? Watch the film >>> The effects of crops on climate change Can food crops have an impact on climate? Watch the film >>> The effects of climate change on crops How can we use climate models to help agriculture adapt to climate change? Watch the film >>>

Examples of our research