Marine geologists study natural processes on the ocean floor and beaches, specializing in areas such as sedimentology, mineralogy, and geochemistry. They conduct field, computer, and laboratory research, and can work for universities, research institutions, environmental organizations, or oil and gas companies. A master’s degree is generally required, and some positions require a doctorate.
A marine geologist is a scientist who studies the different natural processes that occur on the ocean floor and on beaches. He or she can search the seafloor, collect samples of sediment and rock, and analyze their age and composition in a laboratory. Scientists typically specialize in one or more areas of marine geology, such as sedimentology, mineralogy, or geochemistry, among many other subfields. A marine geologist can work for a university, a private research institution, an environmental protection organization or an oil or gas company as an explorer.
Most marine geologists conduct field, computer, and laboratory research to learn about the oceans and land. A scientist might explore a site to collect mineral samples or do research on the ocean floor. He or she often uses computer technology, such as global positioning system devices, to assist in mapping or analyzing a particular area. In the laboratory, a marine geologist might try to determine the chemical composition of a sample, the presence of pollutants, or the age of different rocks. Geologists often write detailed scientific papers about their experiments and discoveries.
There are many specialties in marine geology. Scientists can focus on specific processes, such as plate tectonics, volcanic activity, ocean floor spreading, or climatization. Specialists can also focus on certain types of sediments, rocks or minerals, tracking their movements, prevalence and changes over time. Geochemistry specialists investigate the chemical properties of different rocks and sediments, while marine paleontologists study fossils and remains of different plants and animals.
Scientists can find work in many different settings. A marine geologist might work for the government to research and describe the ocean floor, or for a nonprofit organization to promote conservation, cleanup, and education efforts. Other geologists conduct research with universities, private institutions and laboratories dedicated to understanding more about certain ocean phenomena. Oil companies often hire marine geologists to explore the ocean floor in hopes of finding new deposits of oil and natural gas.
To become a marine geologist, a person generally must obtain at least a master’s degree from an accredited university. Some marine geologist jobs, such as teaching and leadership positions, require a scientist to earn a doctorate. Many new scientists take up positions after completing their degree programs, where they assist established geologists and gain experience in the field. An individual working for a government agency or petroleum company may be required to pass a written license exam, administered by their state or country, before conducting surveys and surveys.
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