The department was formed by the University Council in July, 2013. At the time, it was the first research department of the University.
Research is organized around 3 units: Centre for Hydrology and Climate, Centre for Environmental Sanitation and Centre for Agroforestry and Landscape Management.
The Centre for Hydrology and Climate concentrates on studying the processes that drive the hydrological cycle. Particular attention is given to the soil-vegetation-atmosphere transfer mechanisms and the runoff generation processes. Climate and land use change are key research topics. Two (critical zone) ecohydrological observatories have been implemented for these purposes.
The Centre for Environmental Sanitation focuses on the processes responsible for the generation, transport, treatment, and re-use of wastewaters. Research also includes the effects of contaminants on the environment and public health and the development of technologies tailored for medium size Andean cities and small, rural communities.
The Centre for Agroforestry and Landscape Management pursues the conservation, restoration, management and sustainable production of complex mountain landscapes, from a water resources perspective. Principles of forest ecology and the propagation and reproduction of native species are used to reach our goals.
Members of the Department Board:
| Name | Position |
|---|---|
| Prof. Dr. Rolando Célleri Alvear | Department Head |
| Prof. Dr. Luis Timbe | Academic Secretary |
| Prof. Dra. Ximena Palomeque | Head of the Centre for Agroforestry and Landscape Management |
| Prof. Dr. Patricio Crespo | Head of the Centre for Hydrology and Climate |
| Prof. Dr. Andrés Alvarado | Head of the Centre for Environmental Sanitation |