Be it understanding geophysical fundamentals of the sub-surface, or identifying geological hazards that pose challenges to society, CIRES researchers observe and explore all components of the solid earth—core, mantle, and crust. Located at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, CIRES sits in an optimal location for geological exploration. But CIRES researchers also travel the planet seeking to understand the long-term evolution of the solid earth, and its connections with the landscape, global and regional climate, hydrologic processes, and the ocean. Employing everything from boots on the ground fieldwork techniques to cutting-edge remote sensing technologies, CIRES geoscientists are international leaders in the solid earth sciences.