Volcanologist

Overview

Who is Volcanologist?

Volcanologists are scientists that study both active and dormant volcanoes. The study of a volcano is a highly educated specialist in geophysics. Active volcanoes are studied to understand the formation of molten rock (or magma) and the movement deep under the earth's surface. Volcanologists, get a great source of information from inactive volcanoes which are responsible for rock formations that were created by eruptions.

The Volcanologist also works as a detective to study volcanoes. This career is not a 'typical' career. Volcanologists work by observing and watching volcanoes erupt, sometimes they deal with paperwork in the office, flying in a helicopter and installing instruments, or attending scientific conferences. The volcanologist can also work as a paleontologist, geologist, geochemist, oceanographer, seismologist.

Typical day at work

What does Volcanologist do?

Volcanologists gather information regarding volcanic activity and then analyze it. To gather samples, they usually go to an area with a dormant or active volcano. They then analyze the data in a lab for one of three reasons: to learn why volcanoes act, to learn how volcanoes function, or to anticipate future eruptions for the safety of local inhabitants. Some will also look into the volcano's geological past.

The roles and responsibilities of volcanologist includes:

• To study the deposits of volcanic eruptions and its processes
• To gather data about how and where volcanoes are likely to erupt
• Mapping the distribution of the rocks that make up the volcano
• To measure volcanic gravity, seismicity and magnetics
• To study and correlate changes in the shape of the Earth with deformation of the ground at volcanic eruptions
• To study volcanic products
• To conduct and plan field studies
• To prepare scientific report

Abilities & aptitude needed

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

The aspirants must-have skills and abilities to become a Volcanologist and that includes the aspirant must have passion, for adventure, travel and outdoors life, love of science, good level of fitness, willingness to work hard, analytical skills, computer literacy, team-working skills, project management skills.

Courses

Which course I can pursue?