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Oceanographer
Oceanographers study seas and oceans, and the way they interact with the land and the atmosphere. They collect data at sea and carry out laboratory research, developing their knowledge of the oceans’ physical, chemical and biological processes. Oceanographers apply their knowledge to help us monitor and reduce the risk of environmental damage.
Also known as:
- Marine scientist
- Sea scientist
Work activities
Oceanographers carry out most of their research in laboratories, both on and offshore. They collect data from research vessels, buoys and floats equipped with instruments, and robotic vessels. Oceanographers can also make use of satellite images, acoustic technology and seismic surveys. Apart from laboratory work, oceanographers spend some time at sea in fieldwork, aboard research vessels and offshore platforms. They might go out on a ship to measure an ocean’s temperature or salinity (salt content). In the laboratory, oceanographers use sophisticated technology to analyse samples. They make mathematical and physical calculations and use computers to model and forecast factors such as ocean temperatures, fish-migration patterns and the movement of oil slicks.
There are four main specialist areas within oceanography:
- Physical oceanography.
- Chemical oceanography.
- Marine biology.
- Geological oceanography.
Most oceanographers specialise in one of these areas. However, many of them use skills and knowledge from more than one area in their work. Physical oceanographers study conditions such as marine temperatures, density, tides, currents and waves. Their knowledge of wave energy can help to minimise coastal erosion; they also investigate waves and tides as an alternative source of energy to fossil fuels. An important area of research is into climate change. The ocean has a great impact on the global climate because the sea stores heat. Understanding the ocean enables oceanographers, working with meteorologists, to give advice about climate change, global warming and sea level rises. Marine chemistry and geochemistry involve research into the composition of sea water, marine organisms and sea floor sediments. Chemical oceanographers study the interaction between chemicals in sea water and the environment. For example, they study the behaviour of chemical pollutants and their effects on marine food chains, helping to monitor and prevent damage to ecosystems. Tracing the movement of chemicals also helps us to understand how ocean currents move sea water.
Oceanographers who specialise in marine biology study all forms of life in the sea, from plankton to the largest fish and marine mammals. They are interested in how marine organisms develop and interact with each other and their environment. Some marine biologists apply their knowledge to solving problems, especially in conservation and protecting endangered species. Geological oceanographers study rocks, minerals and geological processes at the bottom of the sea. They help us to understand the Earth’s origins and evolution, including past climates. Computer models are important in oceanography. They allow oceanographers to create simulations of ocean systems.
Personal qualities and skills
To be an oceanographer, you’ll need:
- An enquiring mind and strong observational skills.
- An accurate and methodical approach to research.
- Patience to repeat experiments several times.
- Maths and statistics skills to analyse and explain experiments.
- The ability to use a wide variety of equipment and technology.
- Computer skills to analyse results and model ocean processes.
- Willingness to work on your own, in research and fieldwork projects.
- Strong teamwork skills to work alongside other scientists and technicians.
- The ability to explain your findings clearly and concisely, including in written reports.
- Willingness to travel and spend time at sea.
An interest in environmental issues is increasingly important.
Pay and opportunities
Salaries for oceanographers vary. Oceanographers in training may start on the low salary of £14,000 but with experience, earnings can increase to as much as £60,000, with extra responsibilities and specialist expertise.
Oceanographers usually work a basic 39-41-hour week. However, they might need to have early starts, late finishes and weekend work.
Competition for posts in oceanography is strong, as this is a relatively small scientific area.
Employers include universities and government units such as the National Oceanography Centre, Southampton (NOCS), where most research work is carried out. There can be opportunities for graduates in water companies, fisheries laboratories, the Royal Navy and the Met Office. Firms of consultants and companies in the oil and mineral exploration industries also employ oceanographers. Other employers include those involved in fishing, shipping, and marine engineering. Opportunities for oceanographers occur in coastal areas, towns and cities.
Where are vacancies advertised?
Vacancies are advertised on the NOCS website, in science magazines such as New Scientist (which also posts vacancies on its website), on specialist academic and environmental job boards and in national newspapers.
Entry routes and training
To become an oceanographer, you’ll need at least a relevant BSc degree. Career opportunities can be similar for people with a first (undergraduate) degree or a postgraduate degree. However, having an MSc or PhD can allow you to take on more responsibility and achieve higher salaries, earlier in your career. You’ll usually need a PhD to enter a research post in a university or research institute. A small number of specialist single subject degrees are available, for example, in oceanography, ocean science and marine science. You can also study oceanography at first degree level in combination with subjects such as marine biology, geology and meteorology. Other relevant first degrees include biology, chemistry, physics, geology and maths.
Training is usually on the job. You might also have short course training and go to conferences and seminars. Oceanographers might have to move between jobs to progress to senior levels. Experienced oceanographers can go into scientific journalism and publishing, teaching and lecturing. Some people become self-employed consultants.
Qualifications
For entry to a degree course in oceanography, the usual minimum requirement is:
- Two to three A-levels, including at least one science subject/maths. Environmental studies, geology and geography can be acceptable subjects.
- GCSEs at grades 9-4 in your A-level subjects.
- A further two to three GCSEs at grades 9-4.
Some universities ask for English language and/or maths. Alternatives to A-levels include:
- Edexcel (BTEC) level 3 Nationals.
- International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma.
However, course requirements vary, so please check prospectuses carefully.
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).
