You are here: Home: Careers advice: A-Z of careers: Marine scientist

Marine scientist

Marine scientists undertake research into the sea and study its relationship with seafloors, the earth’s crust, animal life, plants, the land, coastal areas and the atmosphere.

It goes without saying that marine scientists need to have a strong stomach and a good pair of sea legs.

Marine scientist job description: Typical employers | Qualifications and training | Key skills | Useful links | Find jobs and courses

Typical responsibilities include:

planning and undertaking laboratory-based experiments and research
collecting samples at sea
keeping up-to-date with scientific and research developments
attending relevant training courses
recording, analysing and interpreting data from biological or physical processes
writing research papers, reports and reviews
ensuring that data is recorded accurately
using problem-solving skills to develop solutions to research challenges
using specialist computer databases and software to analyse and manage data
developing and maintaining a network of contacts
making presentations
identifying new funding sources and applying for grants
planning and organising field research trips
generating new research hypotheses and research theories.

Typical employers of marine scientists

marine laboratories
universities
oil and gas prospectors
specialist research organizations and consultancies
engineering companies
fisheries
marine conservation groups
coastal management organisations.

Job vacancies are advertised via the Internet, by careers services, in national newspapers, in relevant scientific publications such as New Scientist, Marine Scientist and Marine Science and Technology and in journals published by the professional institutions. The Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) funds a number of one-year MSc/Mres studentships and three-year PhD studentships each year – further details are provided on the NERC website.

Qualifications and training required

A good degree in a subject such as marine science or biology, geology, ecology, biology, oceanography, zoology or marine or maritime studies is usually necessary. A relevant postgraduate qualification (whether a PhD or a research-based MSc) is also helpful, particularly for permanent positions. Post-doctoral research or practical research or laboratory work experience is beneficial, and generally required for academic posts.