Oceanographer

Oceanographer means ‘someone who makes a picture of the ocean’ in Greek.

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

Typical responsibilities include:

• planning, organising and leading field research trips
• collecting field samples and data
• giving lectures and making presentations
• using numerical/computer modelling to simulate ocean phenomena
• testing samples in laboratory conditions
• recording, analysing and interpreting data obtained from samples and remote sensing equipment
• using numerical/statistical modelling to make predictions about trends
• keeping up-to-date with scientific and research developments
• attending relevant oceanography conferences, training courses and field trips
• writing funding bids and research proposals
• writing research papers, reports and reviews
• analysing water samples for mineral content and life forms
• using sophisticated equipment and specialist techniques to analyse samples.

Typical employers of oceanographers

Most oceanographers are employed by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) and its related bodies such as:

• the National Oceanography Centre, Southampton
• the British Antarctic Survey.

Other employers include:

• government departments
• the Royal Navy
• environmental agencies
• university research departments
• consultancies
• pressure groups.

Job vacancies generally attract strong competition – there may be as many as 100 applications for each advertised vacancy. Opportunities are advertised via the Internet, in national newspapers, in relevant publications such as New Scientist, Earthworks, Journal of Geophysical Research and Nature and in journals published by the professional institutions.

Qualifications and training required

Candidates will need a good science HND or degree. Relevant subjects include oceanography, marine sciences, geology, ecology, biology, chemical or physical sciences, computer science, software engineering, geophysics or technology, mathematics, environmental science and geography.

A relevant postgraduate qualification (PhD or research-based MSc) is essential for many positions. Post-doctoral research, practical research or marine laboratory work experience can be helpful. Computer and mathematical modelling experience is also advantageous, as are practical skills such as boat handling, scuba or sub aqua diving and first aid.

Key skills for oceanographers

• patience
• determination
• creativity
• flexibility
• decisiveness
• a logical and independent mind
• meticulous attention to detail
• excellent IT skills
• analytical skills
• teamworking skills
• communication skills.

Given the international community involved in many oceanography projects, possessing additional European languages could be a big help. Willingness to work away from home, and at sea, can also be important.