Geologist

Overview

Who is Geologist?

Geologists are those who research the earth's physical structures, composition, and processes that affect it. This includes the exterior and interior surface of the earth, which requires the understanding and application of multiple sciences, including physics, chemistry, mathematics, and biology as well. They are eager to comprehend the production of these materials and the processes that led to them and situate them within the framework of geological history. This involves the study of the earth's occupants and the evolution of life on the planet. They are focused on studying the earth's processes, such as landslides, volcano eruptions, floods; earth's materials, such as natural resources of petroleum, metals, oil, and rocks; and the earth's history, such as climatic changes through time.

They follow an evidence-based approach and deductive reasoning methods to understand and resolve geological problems, including climate change, natural disasters, depletion of natural resources etc. Using their understanding of the geological phenomena, they can also foresee the occurrence of events and how specific processes may have consequences in the future.

Typical day at work

What does Geologist do?

A geologist, often known as an earth scientist, is responsible for researching natural formations and earth processes to support environmental protection or safe land development. Their responsibilities include travelling into the field to gather mineral samples, generate maps of geographical characteristics, and assess a rock structure's biological engineering in preparation for development.

• Plan and conduct the field studies related to geological phenomena
• Determine or develop methods for collecting field data for geological analysis
• Collect field samples of geological, geochemical, and geophysical phenomena using appropriate techniques
• Conduct laboratory tests to analyse samples collected through fieldwork
• Prepare reports and digital databases for the information collected through the field data
• Produce modelling programs for geological phenomena
• Determine the suitability of specified locations for construction projects
• Generate reports regarding the economic and environmental impact of potential geological exploratory projects 
• Prepare geologic and topographic maps using data collected from fieldwork and laboratory research
• Communicate the findings from field studies through presentations at conferences or publishing research papers

Abilities & aptitude needed

What are the skills, abilities & aptitude needed to become Geologist?

A geologist would be well-versed in geological phenomena and the many techniques used to explore them. Their communication skills, both verbal and written, are essential for liaising with management and employees, presenting their results to the public and fellow professionals, and writing reliable reports about their fieldwork. Since much of their tasks require fieldwork, a geologist should possess the necessary physical stamina as well as expertise in carrying out field and laboratory investigations.

Technical knowledge regarding geological mapping, as well as familiarity with using relevant software and specialised devices for data collection, analysis, and modelling, is crucial for a geologist. They should be highly detail-oriented with an analytical mind with strong research skills. Knowledge of and adherence to the health and safety standards and procedures is paramount for a geologist to conduct fieldwork. They should have strong leadership abilities and the capacity to collaborate successfully as part of a multidisciplinary team. Finally, geologists must have strong problem-solving abilities and the capacity to think critically and laterally.

Courses

Which course I can pursue?