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Geophysicist
Geophysicists study the physical make-up and workings of the Earth. This includes its origin and evolution, the formation of natural resources, motion inside the Earth’s core, and the dynamics of gravity, the oceans and the atmosphere. Many geophysicists apply their knowledge to finding, extracting and managing resources such as water, oil, gas and minerals.
Also known as:
- Seismologist
Work activities
Geophysicists can find out about the physical structure, origin and workings of the Earth by studying, analysing and mapping features such as rocks, oceans and river sediments. In fieldwork, they use sophisticated technology such as magnetometers to measure the Earth’s magnetic field, and gravity meters. They study physical features, including how rock types have been folded, fractured and otherwise changed by geological processes (such as the collision of continents). Geophysicists work out the age of rocks and chart their evolution. This information leads to the production of maps and databases, which are essential tools in all areas of geoscience. Some geophysicists monitor earthquakes and volcanoes, using their research to predict eruptions and quakes, and therefore to save lives.
The main area where geophysicists apply their knowledge is finding and extracting natural resources from beneath the Earth’s surface. Exploration geophysicists understand how resources such as oil, gas and minerals are formed, and where they are likely to be found. They collect and analyse physical data to confirm their predictions. The process of finding a natural resource usually begins with desk-based research and fieldwork, for example, studying data from geophysical maps, seismic surveys, aerial photographs and satellite images. Geophysicists can also investigate layers of rock and resource reserves by overseeing the drilling of boreholes and then lowering cameras into the holes to see the layers in place. Having found a natural resource, geophysicists must predict the amount of the resource that could be made available by mining or drilling. Their advice helps to decide whether it will be economically worthwhile to start the extraction process (removing the resource from the ground). Exploration geophysicists must also ensure the safety and suitability of the land for exploration. They consider physical conditions such as soil, rock and groundwater.
Geophysicists investigate factors such as bedrock strength, and evidence of potential landslips, mudslides and earthquakes. Exploration geophysicists can use computers to produce three-dimensional models of mines and oil platforms. These help in designing the site, planning extraction, and simulating the work’s environmental impact. Throughout the process, geophysicists record their results and present them in reports. They discuss findings with other members of the team, such as minerals geologists, engineers and quarry managers. Apart from exploration work, geophysicists advise on environmental issues such as safe landfill sites and uses for abandoned mines and quarries. They assess the suitability of surrounding rocks (pollution in fluid can seep from landfill and mine sites into nearby rivers, for example). They investigate alternative sources of energy, including geothermal energy (heat stored beneath the Earth’s surface). Geophysicists also research and teach in universities, and work in research institutions and scientific journalism.
Personal qualities and skills
To be a geophysicist, you’ll need:
- Maths and physics knowledge, as well as an interest in the Earth.
- Observation and problem-solving skills.
- A logical, methodical approach to your work.
- Teamwork skills. You might also be working on your own for long periods, for example, when mapping areas.
- The ability to read and create maps, displays and charts.
- ICT skills, for example, to process and analyse data, and create computer models.
- The ability to explain your findings and give advice clearly and concisely, including in presentations and written reports.
An awareness of environmental issues is increasingly important. Good colour vision is very important in most areas of geology because of the need to describe and recognise the subtle colour characteristics of rocks and minerals, and to read geological maps, which depend on colour to indicate different rock types.
Pay and opportunities
Salaries for geophysicists vary. Geophysicists earn in the range of £24,000 - £50,000 a year.
Geophysicists usually work around 37-42 hours, Monday to Friday. However, they might need to have early starts, late finishes and some weekend work.
Employers are companies involved in the oil, gas, mining and water industries. The nuclear industry employs some geophysicists. Specialist survey companies also employ geophysicists to locate natural resources and to map geophysical features. There can be opportunities in government departments, or with organisations such as the British Geological Survey and British Antarctic Survey. Some geophysicists work for university research departments.
Opportunities for geophysicists occur in towns, cities and rural areas throughout the UK. Most geophysicists are office-based but have opportunities to travel for fieldwork, meetings and conferences. There are also opportunities to work in many other countries, either for UK-based companies or overseas employers.
It’s possible to become a self-employed consultant, for example, gathering and analysing data for oil and gas companies.
Where are vacancies advertised?
Vacancies are advertised on the Geological Society website, in science magazines such as New Scientist (which also posts jobs on its website), on specialist job boards for the oil, gas and coal industries such as Rigzone/OilCareers, Oil and Gas People, Earthworks, academic recruitment sites and in national newspapers.
Entry routes and training
To become a geophysicist, you’ll usually need at least a relevant first (undergraduate) degree. Many entrants also have a postgraduate qualification such as an MSc. Specialist degrees in geophysics and geophysical sciences are available. You should read university prospectuses to check courses’ geophysics content. Postgraduate MSc courses in geophysics are widely available. You’ll usually need a PhD for entry to a research post in industry or for a vacancy in a university or museum. The Geological Society accredits a number of postgraduate courses.
You might have on-the-job training, combined with short courses and going to conferences and seminars. Some employers enable geophysicists to complete a postgraduate qualification while working.
You could be promoted to a senior position or a management role. Usually with a relevant degree or equivalent, you can become a Fellow of the Geological Society. Then, with at least five years’ relevant experience, you can apply for chartered geologist (CGeol) status. You can also achieve chartered scientist (CSci) status through the Society. Experienced geophysicists can become self-employed consultants. For example, they gather and interpret seismic data for oil and gas companies.
Qualifications
For entry to a relevant degree, the usual minimum requirement is:
- Two to three A-levels, including maths and physics.
- GCSEs at grades 9-4 in your A level subjects.
- A further two to three GCSEs at grades 9-4. You might need an English GCSE.
Equivalent qualifications, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma, can be acceptable for entry. Please check prospectuses carefully. Edexcel (BTEC) level 3 Nationals might also be acceptable for entry. However, some universities will accept these only alongside the specified academic A-levels.
Adult opportunities
Age limits: 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 a degree course, you might be able to start one after completing an Access course, for example, Access to Science. You don’t usually need any qualifications to enter an Access course, although you should check this with the course provider. A foundation year before the start of a science degree is available at some universities and higher education colleges for students who don’t have the science A-levels usually needed for entry to the course.
Funding for postgraduate study and research is available, through universities, from UKRI (UK Research and Innovation).
