The School of Earth, Environmental and Sustainability Sciences (SEESS) at IISER Thiruvananthapuram is an interdisciplinary hub dedicated to understanding the complex interactions between the Earth, its environment, and human society. As one of the newest additions at IISER Thiruvananthapuram, the school has faculty members engaged in diverse research across all aspects of Earth System Sciences, including the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and geosphere, along with their interconnections. The faculty and students collaborate across disciplines, utilizing state-of-the-art facilities and global partnerships to advance knowledge in Earth sciences, environmental stewardship, and sustainable development. Through pioneering research, rigorous academic programs, and community engagement, we aim to empower the next generation of leaders in science, policy, and industry. With a strong focus on tackling the challenges of climate change, resource management, and environmental degradation, the school fosters innovative solutions that promote sustainability and resilience.

The school currently includes 9 faculty members, 11 PhD students, and 22 students enrolled in the i2 (integrated and interdisciplinary) BS-MS Atmospheric Science program. In the near future, SEESS plans to introduce BS-MS programs in Geology and Environmental Sciences. The curriculum is designed to offer students a holistic understanding of the Earth System, integrating knowledge across different disciplines, regardless of their specific course of study. Many students majoring in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology are also conducting projects with SEESS faculty, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. This unique approach makes the school one of the few of its kind in the country, promoting a truly integrated perspective on Earth, Environmental and Sustainability Sciences.

Mission

The mission of the School of Earth, Environmental, and Sustainability Sciences is to advance scientific understanding of the Earth and its systems through education, research, and outreach. We strive to:

• Foster a learning environment that prepares students to address environmental and sustainability challenges.
• Conduct basic and applied research to uncover solutions for global climate, water, and resource sustainability issues.
• Engage with communities to promote informed decision-making for sustainable development.

Vision

Our vision is to be a global leader in earth, environmental, and sustainability sciences, inspiring innovative solutions to the planet’s most pressing challenges. We envision a sustainable future where:

• Human activities harmonize with the Earth’s natural systems.
• Communities thrive through equitable access to resources and opportunities.
• Science drives policy and action to preserve the planet for future generations.