Geophysicist

Introduction

Geophysicists study the physical structure and composition of the Earth. They may use their knowledge to find and extract resources like oil, gas, coal and minerals. Some geophysicists find and manage water beneath the Earth's surface. Others monitor earthquakes and volcanoes.

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Work Activities

Geophysicists study the physical structure of the Earth. They find out about the Earth's origins and development by, for example, analysing fossils, sediments and previously molten rock.

Geophysicists understand how resources like oil, coal and gas are formed, and where they are likely to be found. They travel to areas where they think resources are, and take rock, soil and other samples to confirm their predictions. Their advice can help to decide if extraction will be economic.

In oil exploration, geophysicists must be very confident that the right area has been found before drilling begins. They need to know what type of structure is being drilled, and how stable it is. This information may be obtained by taking rock samples, or drilling boreholes into sea and rock beds. Most oil companies have research laboratories, where new discovery techniques are developed. Geophysicists produce computer models of mines and oil platforms to design the site, plan extraction and look at the impact on the environment.

Other geophysicists find and manage water beneath the Earth's surface. This work is especially important in very hot countries, where water may exist mostly below ground. At the other extreme, geophysicists study and observe glaciers, tracing their origins and noting how they are affected by global climate change.

Some geophysicists monitor the behaviour of earthquakes and volcanoes. They study fault lines, caused by the movement of the Earth's rock plates, to predict earthquakes. They may be able to predict volcanic eruptions by studying the distribution of ash and lava deposits. Exploration geophysicists must know if an area they are working in is prone to earthquakes, and what effects an earthquake might have on the rocks, soil, water and building materials they are working with.

In seismic surveying, equipment is used to simulate vibrations from earthquakes. Vibrations are sent into the ground or sea, and the energy they produce eventually returns to the surface. Geophysicists are able to identify the type and shape of rocks and deposits beneath the surface by the different effects they have on the path of the energy.

Geophysicists may advise on environmental issues, for example, the suitability of a proposed landfill site, methods to stop polluted water leaking from old mines, and the prevention of landslides.

Some geophysicists work as researchers or teachers in universities.

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Personal Qualities and Skills

Geophysicists need good maths and physics skills.

As a geophysicist, you must be able to work in a team, and in independent research and exploration. You may be working on your own for long periods, for example, when mapping areas.

You will need to be able to draw and read maps, displays and charts. You need to use IT skills to process data and produce three-dimensional models of geophysical features.

You must be able to express your ideas and findings clearly, both verbally and in writing to produce reports and make presentations.

You should be aware of environmental issues.

You must be physically fit, especially if you work in remote areas of the world with difficult terrain.

You need good colour vision to see the subtle differences between rocks and minerals and to read geological maps.

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Pay and Opportunities

Salaries vary depending on the company and level of responsibility.

The pay rates given below are approximate.

Geophysicists earn in the range of £22,000 - £30,000 a year, rising to around £35,000 - £45,000 a year. Higher earners can make around £50,000 a year.

Higher salaries are available depending on employer, role and responsibilities.

Geophysicists usually work around 35-40 hours, Monday to Friday. However, early starts, late finishes and some weekend work may be required.

Most employment opportunities are with companies involved in the oil, gas, mining, and water industries, both in the UK and other countries. The nuclear industry also employs geophysicists.

Specialist survey companies also employ geophysicists to locate natural resources and to map geophysical features.

There may be opportunities in government departments, or with organisations like the British Geological Survey and British Antarctic Survey.

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Adult Opportunities

It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

If you don't have the qualifications needed to enter your chosen degree course, a college or university Access course (eg, Access to Science) could be the way in. No formal qualifications are usually required, but you should check individual course details.

Funding for postgraduate study and research is available through universities from the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).

• 2% of people in occupations such as geophysics work part-time.
• 27% have flexible hours.
• 35% of employees work on a temporary basis.

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Further Information

The United Nations has designated 2008 as the International Year of Planet Earth. During this year governments everywhere will be encouraged to introduce educational and scientific projects to demonstrate new and exciting ways in which the Earth sciences can help ensure a safer and more prosperous world for future generations.

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New Developments

Some people working in this occupation may be involved in the green jobs sector in areas such as renewable energy, waste management, conservation or countryside management.