Oceanographer

Overview

Who is Oceanographer?

Environmental changes have been the discussions for a while now. The effect of human activities on nature has been a hot topic. Marine life and health is at stake, the normal functioning of the world greatly depends on the ocean health. Oceanographers study the important processes of the ocean and work towards mitigating the effect of climate change, overpopulation and overfishing. They study about life in the ocean, their ecosystems, ocean floor, waves and tides etc. Depending on the area of study there are 4 primary specialties in oceanography; Marine Biologist who are involved with the study of marine ecosystems and their inhabitants, Physical Oceanographers which involves the study of movement of the oceans such as waves, tides etc., Chemical Oceanographers monitor the chemical composition of the ocean water whereas Geological Oceanographers focus on the ocean floor, the undersea volcanic activity and tectonic plate movement etc.

Typical day at work

What does Oceanographer do?

Oceanographers research and explain the intricate connections between salt water, fresh water, polar ice caps, the atmosphere, and the biosphere using science and mathematics. An oceanographer's job is to figure out how the world's oceans and seas function, as well as how to utilise their resources most effectively and sustainably possible. Mineral extraction, shipping, fishing, coastal building, pollution, weather prediction, climate change, and renewable energy are all areas where an oceanographer is involved. They organise and execute research excursions, collecting samples and data from the seabed with specialised equipment and methodologies. They investigate living forms and substances in seawater, such as trace metals, and analyse samples for natural and contaminant composition. Computer or mathematical models are used to simulate water phenomena.

• To conduct field studies and visit locations to collect samples and conduct surveys and to test the samples

• To evaluate the seawater components, pollutants and their impact on marine organisms.

• To study the physical conditions and mechanisms of the ocean such as wave currents, water movements around the world, coastal erosion etc.

• To examine the relationship between the climate and weather of the world and the deep currents of the ocean and its atmosphere.

• To prepare reports on the findings and present them to the clients, colleagues and to other concerned parties.

• To measure the concentration of salt and gas in the ocean water as well as the temperature, and to use the satellite information for data collection regarding the wave height and patterning, wind speed etc.

• To utilise computer software and sampling devices to measure details regarding marine life such as population and activities.

• To assist in oceanographic instrumentation design, production, detailing and documentation.

• To engage in marketing and communications with the external stakeholders

• To complete projects within budget and schedule the strings

Abilities & aptitude needed

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

The documentation and research papers to be done by an oceanographer makes the writing skills an important one. They have to communicate their results to other scientists as well as stakeholders and other concerned people who might not have a science background. The studies must have a scientific nature with data backup. The careful evaluation of the data and reaching a sensible conclusion requires critical thinking ability, problem solving as well as attention to detail. The work doesn't promise full time office work. It involves fieldwork and physical strength is required for camping, hikings, along with the sampling and testing equipment for the work.

Courses

Which course I can pursue?