GEOSCIENCES

Water-related research of international relevance
Groundwater, a dynamic system involved in multiple interactions, is a global concern. Professor Robert Reinecke of Mainz University, through his digital models of global water resources, is making a significant impact on our understanding of this crucial resource. His contributions to the annual United Nations' State of Global Water Resources report, published by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), are shaping the global discourse on water management.

Uncovering the secrets of gems
Gemstones are fascinating wonders of nature, surrounded by a mystical aura of luxury. Dr. Tobias Häger is working on diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds every day. He is head of the Gem Materials Research group at the Institute of Geosciences at Mainz University, the only university-based team working in gemstone analysis in Germany and one of very few university institutions worldwide that is active in this specialized field.

The climate remains a mystery
In his book Geschichte des Klimas (A history of the climate), one of the leading paleoclimate researcher takes us on a journey through the geological eras. Professor Dr. Frank Sirocko of the Institute of Geosciences at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz (JGU) provides insight into the past while also venturing to forecast the future.

Immortal minerals
The Mineralogical Collection of the Institute of Geosciences is housed in a simple room with 60s charm. Here, rubies, emeralds, gold, and much more sparkle in plain glass cabinets. Professor Dr. Wolfgang Hofmeister guards these treasures and is responsible for adding new items – sometimes even vaporizing a diamond in the service of science.