The Geophysical Institute of the University of Alaska Fairbanks conducts research into space physics and aeronomy; atmospheric sciences; snow, ice, and permafrost; seismology; volcanology; and tectonics and sedimentation. It was founded in 1946 by an act of the United States Congress.
The mission of the Geophysical Institute is to:
- Understand basic geophysical processes governing the planet Earth, especially as they occur in or are relevant to Alaska;
- Train graduates and undergraduates to play leading scientific roles in tomorrow's society;
- Solve applied geophysical problems and develop related technologies of importance to the state and the nation;
- Satisfy the intellectual and technological needs of fellow Alaskans through public service.