Oceanographers are scientists who use their knowledge of biology, chemistry, physics and geology to study oceans and seas. This research is used to influence global climate policies, as well as to provide evidence of the impact of pollution and offshore engineering on fragile ecosystems and to uncover potential new energy sources.
Most oceanographers work in multidisciplinary teams which generally focus their research in one of four areas:
- Marine geologists study the structure of the ocean floor to gain knowledge of the earth’s history and discover, for example, oil, gas and mineral resources.
- Marine chemists analyse the chemical composition of water or sediments and how different marine organisms and pollutants behave.
- Marine biologists study marine animal and plant life.
- Marine physicists study water temperatures, density, currents, wave motion and tides and how they affect the climate and coastal erosion. They also study wave heights and storm tides, which can influence the precise location of an offshore oilrig.
Oceanographers collect data from:
- instruments on ships and robotic sea vehicles
- apparatus on moored and drifting buoys
- remote sensors on satellites
- probes lowered into the sea
- drilling into the seabed.
They use computers and mathematical techniques to analyse the data. Oceanographers would then:
- write reports on findings to present to other scientific communities
- publish findings in scientific and industry journals
- work alongside computer modellers to produce visual simulations of changing oceans to produce more accurate forecasts
- provide specialist advice to organisations such as government agencies, water authorities, industry and environmental groups.
Senior oceanographers might manage a team of researchers and technical specialists.
Hours and environment
Oceanographers divide their time between desk, laboratory and field research. They usually work office hours Monday to Friday when working ashore, analysing data gathered from research trips.
Research trips may require going to sea, perhaps for six or more weeks at a time, to collect data. These research trips can be physically demanding, and involve working in confined, uncomfortable conditions, sometimes in hazardous and remote areas. They often involve using diving equipment or submersible vehicles. Coastal and inshore fieldwork is carried out on foot from the seashore or on small boats.
Salary and other benefits
These figures are only a guide, as actual rates of pay may vary, depending on the employer and where people live.
- Starting salaries can be around €25,000 to €27,000 a year.
- A research fellow might earn between €27,000 and €33,000 a year.
- An experienced oceanography research scientist may earn between €30,000 and €44,000 a year
Lecturers in oceanography might earn up to €57,000 a year.
Skills and personal qualities
Oceanographers need to have:
- very strong scientific and mathematical ability
- good observation skills
- accuracy and attention to detail
- an inquisitive mind
- good project management and planning ability
- excellent IT skills for capturing, storing and processing data
- good level of physical health and fitness for research fieldwork
- good written and verbal communication skills, to convey technical results to others
- self motivation to work alone but equally enjoy working in a team.
Interests
It helps to have an interest in:
- problem solving
- ocean life and environmental issues
- science, maths and engineering.
Entry routes
Since oceanography is primarily a research-based career, postgraduate study is usually required at Masters degree or PhD level.
Degrees in physics, chemistry, maths or biology are all useful. There are some specialised degree courses that cover oceanography or ocean science, often in combination with other subjects, such as chemistry, geography, geology, computing or meteorology.
Useful Links:
Marine Institute
British Oceanographic Data Centre
NUI Galway Department of Earth & Ocean Science