Seismologist

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• working towards this role

University

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:

• 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

Entry requirements:

Entry requirements:

Work

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.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

Skills:

• 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
• thinking and reasoning skills
• the ability to come up with new ways of doing things
• knowledge of chemistry including the safe use and disposal of chemicals
• the ability to use your initiative
• knowledge of English language
• the ability to read English
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• persistence and determination
• active listening skills
• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• ambition and a desire to succeed
• concentration skills

What you'll do:

Seismologists study shock waves created by earthquakes, volcanoes and tsunamis. They also work in oil, gas and minerals exploration.

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

Location : You could work at a research facility, at a university or in a laboratory.
Environment : Your working environment may be physically active, outdoors in all weathers and you may spend nights away from home.
Uniform : You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.

Salary:

Starter : £24,000
Experienced : £50,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

37 - 42 hours a week

Working Pattern is evenings / weekends occasionally

Career Path:

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.