French Geological Survey (BRGM)

The Bureau de Recherches Géologiques et Minières (BRGM) is the French geological survey and a leading public research institution in Earth and environmental sciences. As the national reference body for understanding and managing the Earth’s surface and subsurface, BRGM conducts scientific research, provides expertise to public authorities and industry, and develops innovative solutions to societal and environmental challenges. It mobilises more than 700 engineers and researchers among its staff to advance knowledge and support sustainable resource management.

Research Topics

The BRGM is the French national reference institution in Earth sciences, addressing key challenges related to sustainable resource management, environmental protection, and risk prevention. Its research activities focus on:

• Geological risks and resilience: Understanding and mitigating natural hazards such as earthquakes, landslides, and coastal erosion.
• Water resources and hydrogeology: Ensuring sustainable groundwater management and pollution control.
• Raw materials and the energy transition: Exploring geothermal energy, critical raw materials, and CO₂ storage solutions.
• Pollution and environmental remediation: Developing innovative techniques for soil and water decontamination.
• Digital geology and geoscience data: Advancing geological mapping, remote sensing, and data-driven modeling.

Equipment and Technology

BRGM provides cutting-edge facilities and technologies to support its research and expertise, including:

• Geophysical survey instruments for subsurface imaging and exploration.
• Analytical laboratories specialized in geochemistry, hydrogeology, and material characterization.
• High-performance computing (HPC) infrastructure for geological modeling and data analysis.
• Experimental platforms for testing environmental remediation and energy storage solutions.
• Geological databases and GIS tools to support decision-making in land use and resource management.