The POMG research group has multidisciplinary expertise in the monitoring and numerical modeling of physical and geological processes, at various spatial scales, from coastal zones to the deep sea, addressing environmental problems from the perspective of climate change and social needs.

The main research activities focus on the study of hydrodynamic processes, from the large scale (N Atlantic), to the Iberian upwelling ecosystem, to estuaries and coastal zones, and their interaction with the atmosphere. The key problems addressed aim to understand the mechanisms of open ocean circulation and coastal circulation with emphasis on the links between the two, and to understand the mechanisms of larval dispersal and connectivity. Extensive studies of estuarine systems along the Iberian coast are being carried out, addressing physical-biological interactions and the development of innovative monitoring techniques and advanced modeling to assess the sustainability of the coastal environment. Observations and modelling of wave action and sediment transport in the coastal zone are also developed in close connection with coastal morphodynamics. The modelling of the evolution of coastal systems, in the medium and long term, increases the detail of the projections of global climate models, and the validation studies of these models are one of the activities carried out by POMG. A research component in underwater acoustics that includes the use of numerical models to study the global scale propagation in the ocean of low frequency sound generated by natural and anthropogenic events also integrates the competences of the POMG group

Research into coastal and deep-sea geological processes, mineral and energy resources includes the component of risks and their impacts on ecosystems and populations. Research in geological hazards focuses on erosion and retreat of the coastline, and on the characterization of areas with a high seismic risk. Research on marine mineral and energy resources includes the exploration of continental shelf sands and gravels, Cobalt-rich polymetallic nodules and crusts, hydrocarbons (oil, gas and gas hydrates), and the assessment of impacts of offshore exploration/dredging activities.