Seismologist
Seismologists study shock waves created by earthquakes, volcanoes and tsunamis. They also work in oil, gas and minerals exploration.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
As a seismologist, you could:
- monitor and analyse data from seismic sensors around the world
- map seismic regions and fault lines in the Earth's surface
- develop early warning systems for earthquake zones
- produce surveys for mining, engineering and energy companies
- supervise students on field trips
- train professionals working in related fields like disaster risk reduction
Working environment
You could work at a research facility, at a university or in a laboratory.
Your working environment may be physically active, outdoors in all weathers and you may spend nights away from home.
You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.
Career path and progression
You could become a project co-ordinator or manager with a seismic research organisation, university or energy company.
In a university post, once you've got experience and published original research, you could become a senior research fellow or professor.
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- knowledge of geography
- science skills
- maths knowledge
- analytical thinking skills
- excellent verbal communication skills
- excellent written communication skills
- knowledge of physics
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications
How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- working towards this role
You can do a degree or postgraduate qualification in:
- geology
- geography
- Earth science
- geophysics
- environmental science
- computer science
Many employers will expect you to be working towards a PhD on a relevant research project.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
- 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including a science, for a degree
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
More Information
You could start as a PhD research assistant, for example in a university Earth sciences or geophysics engineering department. With further training and experience you could become a seismologist.
Further information
You can discover more about working in seismology from The Geological Society and the British Geological Survey.
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External links
This page contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.