Peking University

Institute of Geochemistry

Geochemistry is the science that uses modern tools and principles of chemistry to study the mechanisms behind major geological systems such as the composition, structure, processes, and other physical aspects of the Earth. Along with geology and geophysics, geochemistry is one of the main branches of Earth Science. The realm of geochemistry extends beyond the Earth, encompassing the entire Solar System, and has made important contributions to the understanding of a number of processes including mantle convection, continental evolution and the formation of the planets.

The Institute of Geochemistry at Peking University was established in 2001. Its predecessor was the Geochemistry department since 1955. The Institute of Geochemistry is teaching geochemistry as an undergraduate subject, has a comprehensive undergraduate and graduate education program, and are accredited to grant degrees of Master of Science (M.Sc) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D). 

Our cutting-edge research is led by 11 academic staff, including 3 full professors, 2 “PKU 100 plan”researchers, 6 associate professors (5 PhD advisors among them). We conduct research in the areas of Petrology Geochemistry, Isotope Geochemistry, Ore Deposit Geochemistry, Experimental Geochemistry and Biogeochemistry. Our staff publish over 50 journal papers every year. We have completed about 40 projects funded by the Natural Science Foundation of China, and some key projects from the Ministry of Technology and the Chinese Geological Survey. Our current total funding is about half a million per year per staff member.  

We provide an environment conducive to high-quality research training for about 30 graduate students. Our high standing in teaching and research is based upon a strong emphasis on application of the enabling sciences - mathematics, physics, and chemistry - to address the big challenges in Earth sciences. Through a history of more than 60 years, geochemistry graduates from PKU are the backbone and the leader of the national economy. Most of our graduates continue their academic research at universities or other institutes in China or overseas, while some work for government or national companies. 

Director: Prof. Yongfeng Zhu 

Vise-director: Xi Liu, Qiugen Li

Members:

        Haifei Zheng, Shuwen Liu, Yongfeng Zhu, Yulin Liu, Ruixia Hao, Qiang Sun, Xiang Wu, Qiong Liu, Guibin Zhang