What is Earth Science
What is an Earth Scientist?
Earth Scientists are stewards or caretakers of Earth’s resources and environment. They work to understand
natural processes on Earth and other planets. Investigating the Earth, its soils, oceans, and atmosphere;
forecasting the weather; developing land-use plans; exploring other planets and the solar system;
determining environmental impacts; and finding new sources of useful Earth materials are just a few of the
ways geoscientists contribute to our understanding of Earth processes and history. Earth Scientists provide
essential information for solving problems and establishing governmental policies for resource management;
environmental protection; and public health, safety, and welfare.
Earth Scientists are curious about the Earth and the solar system. What is the composition of other planets,
and do they sustain life? How are they changing? What effects will shrinking glaciers have on the oceans and
climate? What makes a continent move, a mountain form, a volcano erupt? Why did the dinosaurs become
extinct?
Earth Scientists are concerned about our environment. How is the global climate changing? How do Earth
systems work? How and where should we dispose of industrial wastes? How can society’s growing demands
for energy and water be satisfied while conserving natural resources for future generations? As global
populations increase, can we grow enough food and fibre to sustain them?
The Earth is an outdoor laboratory filled with opportunities to observe Earth processes in action. By applying
their knowledge of forces and factors that shape the Earth, Earth Scientists seek to reconstruct the past and
anticipate the future.
What is Earth Science
Careers in the Geosciences
Geoscientists, or Earth Scientists follow paths of exploration and discovery in quest of solutions to some of
society’s most challenging problems.
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Predicting the behaviour of Earth systems and the universe.
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Finding adequate supplies of natural resources, such as ground water, petroleum, and metals.
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Conserving soils and maintaining agricultural productivity.
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Developing natural resources in ways that safeguard the environment.
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Maintaining quality of water supplies.
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Reducing human suffering and property loss from natural hazards, such as volcanic eruptions, earth
quakes, floods, landslides, hurricanes, and tsunamis.
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Determining geological controls on natural environments and habitats and predicting the impact of human
activities on them.
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Defining the balance between society’s demand for natural resources and the need to sustain healthy
ecosystems.
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Understanding global climate patterns and the history of climate change.
What is Earth Science
Geologists
Geology is a wide-ranging science which extends from studies on the structure and composition of our planet
to those on the complex and fascinating natural processes involved in the formation of the mineral and energy
resources that are important to the future development of Australia
Geologists work in a diverse range of occupations. These may include exploration for petroleum and mineral
deposits, road and dam construction, development and conservation of water resources, disposal of toxic
wastes and preservation of the environment. Field trips are an essential component of many geologists’
activities.
Geologists often apply techniques from other science disciplines including chemistry, physics, mathematics
and biology in their work. As geologists may use limited information to discover something valuable but hidden
from view, they also need good ‘detective’ or problem-solving skills.
Employers of geologists include research organisations such as CSIRO, government conservation agencies,
private consultancies, construction companies and companies involved in exploration and development of oil,
gas, mineral and other natural resources throughout the world.
What do Geoscientists do?
The following list gives a glimpse of what geoscientists do in these disciplines and a variety of sub-disciplines.
Atmospheric Scientists study weather processes; the global dynamics of climate; solar radiation and its
effects; and the role of atmospheric chemistry in ozone depletion, climate change, and pollution.
GIS Specialists work with geoscientists to produce accurate maps of the location and relationship between
rock units of our Earth.
Economic Geologists explore for and develop metallic and nonmetallic resources; they study mineral deposits
and find environmentally safe ways to dispose of waste materials from mining activities.
Engineering Geologists apply geological data, techniques, and principles to the study of rock and soil surficial
materials and ground water; they investigate geologic factors that affect structures such as bridges, buildings,
airports, and dams.
What is Earth Science
Environmental Geologists / Geochemists/ Geophysicists, study the interaction between the geosphere,
hydrosphere, atmosphere, biosphere, and human activities. They work to solve problems associated with
pollution, waste management, urbanisation, and natural hazards, such as flooding and erosion.
Exploration Geologists use sophisticated equipment, geophysics, geochemistry, computer modelling and field
mapping techniques to find new mineral resources.
Geochemists use physical and inorganic chemistry to investigate the nature and distribution of major and trace
elements in ground water and Earth materials; they use organic chemistry to study the composition of fossil
fuel (coal, oil, and gas) deposits.
Geochronologists use the rates of decay of certain radioactive elements in rocks to determine their age and the
time sequence of events in the history of the Earth.
Geologists study the materials, processes, products, physical nature, and history of the Earth.
Geomorphologists study Earth’s landforms and landscapes in relation to the geologic and climatic processes
and human activities, which form them.
Geophysicists apply the principles of physics to studies of the Earth’s interior and investigate Earth’s magnetic,
electric, and gravitational fields.
Glacial Geologists study the physical properties and movement of glaciers and ice sheets.
Hydrogeologists study the occurrence, movement, abundance, distribution, and quality of subsurface waters
and related geologic aspects of surface waters.
Hydrologists are concerned with water from the moment of precipitation until it evaporates into the atmosphere
or is discharged into the ocean; for example, they study river systems to predict the impacts of flooding.
Igneous Petrologists study the formation of igneous rocks resulting from vocanic activity and deep magmatic
processes.
Marine Geologists investigate the ocean-floor and ocean-continent boundaries; they study ocean basins,
continental shelves, and the coastal environments on continental borders.
Metamorphic Petrologists study metamorphic rocks and minerals and the processes that operate deep
beneath the Earth’s surface.
What is Earth Science
Meteorologists study the atmosphere and atmospheric phenomena, including the weather.
Mineralogists study mineral formation, composition, and properties.
Mine Geologists map mineral deposits in underground and open-pit mines and manage the economic
extraction of minerals
Oceanographers investigate the physical, chemical, biological, and geologic dynamics of oceans.
Ore Deposit Geologists study the processes involved in the formation of mineral deposits.
Paleoecologists study the function and distribution of ancient organisms and their relationships to their
environment.
Paleontologists study fossils to understand past life forms and their changes through time and to reconstruct
past environments.
Petroleum Geologists are involved in exploration for and production of oil and natural gas resources.
Petrologists determine the origin and natural history of rocks by analysing mineral composition and grain
relationships.
Planetary Geologists study planets and their moons in order to understand the evolution of the solar system.
Regolith Geologists study the soils and weathered rock materials which cover most of Australia, for agricultural
purposes and sometimes searching for mineral deposits buried beneath the surface.
Sedimentologists study the nature, origin, distribution, and alteration of sediments, such as sand, silt, and
mud. Oil, gas, coal and many mineral deposits occur in such sediments.
Seismologists study earthquakes and analyse the behaviour of earthquake waves to interpret the structure of
the Earth.
Soil Scientists study soils and their properties to determine how to sustain agricultural productivity and to
detect and remediate contaminated soils.
What is Earth Science
Stratigraphers investigate the time and space relationships of rocks, on a local, regional, and global scale
throughout geologic time - especially the fossil and mineral content of layered rocks.
Structural Geologists analyse Earth’s forces by studying deformation, fracturing, and folding of the Earth’s
crust.
Volcanologists investigate volcanoes and volcanic phenomena to understand these natural hazards and predict
eruptions.
What is Earth Science
Scope of employment for Earth Scientists
Earth Scientists use their breadth of knowledge to draw on a range of different scientific disciplines such as
chemistry, physics, biology, geology and geography. As a result, Earth Scientists are valuable in many different
disciplines. The following list is an example of the variety of occupations available to Earth Scientists:
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Minerals Exploration: Geologist, Geophysicist, Exploration Geologist, Regolith Geologist, Structural
Geologist, Ore Deposit Geologist, Sedimentologist, Volcanologist, GIS Specialist
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Oil Exploration: Geologist, Petroleum Geologist, Stratigraphers, Palaeontologist, Geophysicist
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Environment: Environmental Geologist, Hydrologist, Geomorphologist, Environmental Manager,
Hydrogeologist
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Government: Geologist, Geomorphologist, Geophysicist, Environmental Geologist, Hydrologist,
Hydrogeologist, Soil Scientist, Engineering Geologist, Petrologist, Volcanologist, GIS Specialist,
Ore Deposit Geologist, Petrologist
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Education: Teachers
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Research: Volcanologist, Ore Deposit Geologist, Petrologist, Geophysicist, Geochemist, Palaeontologist
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Economics/Commerce: Resource Evaluator, Market Analyst, Stock Trader, Economic Geologist
What is Earth Science
Where do Geoscientists Work?
Geoscientists may be found sampling the deep ocean floor or examining rock specimens from the Moon
or Mars. But the work of most geoscientists is more “down to Earth.” They work as explorers, consultants,
geographic information specialists, researchers, educators, writers, editors, and museum curators as well as in
many other challenging positions. They often divide their time among work in the field, the laboratory, and the
office. They have a duty of care to raise public awareness at geological issues of importance to society, such
as risk of earthquakes and volcanic hazards.
Field work usually consists of making observations and measurements, and produce geological maps
explore the subsurface by drilling or using geophysical tools, collecting rocks and fossil samples, and making
measurements that will be analysed in the laboratory. For example, rock samples may be X-rayed, studied
under an electron microscope, and analyse them to determine physical and chemical properties. Geoscientists
may also conduct experiments or design computer models to test theories about geologic phenomena and
processes, and earth evolution through time.
In the office, geologists integrate field and laboratory data using computers and prepare reports and
presentations that include maps and diagrams, that illustrate the results of their studies. Such map conditions
are used by government regulators, local communities, energy services, mineral and petroleum exploration
companies.
Geoscientists need good computing skills, should possess a high degree of sensitivity to the environment and
be prepared to work in remote locations. They should have a keen sense of observation, an enquiring mind and
ability to analyse data. This is in addition to preparedness to work long, irregular hours. As geoscientists may
spend from one third to half of their working hours in the field, investigating and supervising the construction of
their designs, they should enjoy outdoor work and travel. The geoscientists first few years in employment are
usually spent mainly in the field. Initially, geoscientists are required to work in a number of locations, but with
demonstrated ability to develop and manage projects, they may be given opportunities to take up managerial
positions. Good communications skills enable geoscientists to work well in a team environment. To optimise
the development of resources the geoscientist should also have a sound grasp of economic geology.
International travel is a reasonable expectation, as you may become involved in the search for minerals worldwide, or advanced study and research in other areas of geology, such as the study of volcanoes, earthquakes,
plate tectonic processes or Antarctic geology.
What is Earth Science
Job and Salary Outlook
Starting Salaries for four year trained geologists range from $35,000 to $50,000 per annum, depending on the
routine of work, employing body and location of work. Government, city-based jobs are at the low end of the
spectrum, whereas company jobs in remote locations are at the higher end. Prospects for promotion to senior
geoscientist are generally good within five to ten years of first employment, but this is variable and depends
on the size of the employing organisation. Jobs and salaries in mineral exploration tend to be cyclical, with
a shortage of geoscientists during some periods and an oversupply during other periods. This means that
geoscientists should endeavour to develop a range of training and skills that cover more than one of the subdisciplines of Earth Science
What is Earth Science
Environmental Scientist
Environmental geology involves geological processes that can affect human society and the natural environment. Included in environmental geology studies are such topics as landslides, waste disposal, volcanic hazards, potable water supplies, flooding, mineral resources, and earthquakes. Some of these we want to discover
and manage wisely (eg. ground water resources), others we wish to avoid (landslides, earthquakes, volcanic
eruptions, subsidence, and floods), while others societies desperately need, but must be careful in their management to ensure the safety (landfills, earthen dams).
Job Description
Environmental Scientists identify factors influencing the environment, collect and analyse data from scientific
measurement and monitoring, then evaluate, prepare reports and make recommendations regarding effective
courses of action for managing the environment. They may specialise in one particular aspect of environmental
science, such as water conservation, dust control, noise control or rehabilitation.
Education and Training
Entry to this profession initially requires the completion of year 12 and study in biology, chemistry, physics and
maths is advised. Completion of a degree course in Science, Applied Science or Agricultural Science, with an
environmental science focus is required. Post graduate qualifications may be desirable.
Working Conditions
Environmental Scientists generally work with other professionals such as geologists, engineers, managers and
technicians. The amount of indoor and outdoor work they do depends on the individual job. Environmental
scientists require a logical approach to problem solving and an ability to communicate with a wide range of
people.
Due to increased community and industry concern regarding the environment, the minerals industry has addressed issues concerning mine rehabilitation, work management and pollution control. The industry undertakes comprehensive environmental protection measures during all stages of the mining process. Environmental scientists assist in the planning for exploration and mining, This involves preparing an environmental
management plan, or environmental effects or impact statement, which identifies all areas subject to disturbance during the exploration and mining processes. This plan covers issues such as: the objectives for environmental management, such as dust and noise suppression, rehabilitation, and control measures in management and rehabilitation. The outcomes are based on analysis of data collected using scientific measurement
and monitoring methods.
What is Earth Science
Employment Opportunities
Environmental Scientists are often employed from the ranks of many disciplines other than environmental
science such as engineers, surveyors, biologists, and ecologists. Demand depends on the level of activity in
mining and the level of government and private funding for environmental research.
Career options include working:
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as a site officer or environmental manager for a large mining or development organisation;
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for a government department
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for a private consultancy organisation;
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for a research organisation
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as a teacher.
Subjects Required for Careers in the Earth Sciences
Career Choice
Key Subjects
Additional Possible Subjects
Mineral Exploration
Geology
Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics
Mine Geology
Geology, Computer
Geography and Environmental Studies
Science
Botany, Zoology
Teaching
Geology
Computer Science
Geological Surveys
Geology
Mineral Economics
Economics
Environmental Geology
Geophysics
Geology
Chemistry, Geography, Botany
Geography
Environmental Studies
Geology, Physics
Chemistry, Computer Science
Mathematics
Geochemistry
Geology, Chemistry
Mathematics, Physics,
Computer Science
What is Earth Science
Why Study Earth Science at the University of Tasmania?
Tasmania is an ideal place to study geology. We have one of the best School of Earth Sciences in Australia,
with an international reputation for advanced research and a Special Research Centre for Ore Deposit Research. Also, we have a natural laboratory on our very doorstep; Tasmanian geology is impressive and varied,
and on the west coast we have a series of world class ore deposits readily available for study.
Our School of Earth Sciences
The School of Earth Sciences houses fully equipped undergraduate teaching school with access to world class
teaching equipment. The school teaches a range of streams from environmental geology, economic geology,
geophysics, geochemistry as well as a classical geology course. The school has small class sizes allowing
high-quality, personalised teaching. Students are shown an outstanding range of rock types exposed at many
beautiful locations across Tasmania and all within a few hours drive of Hobart. The teaching emphasises modern techniques and developments. There is a strong emphasis of computer applications in geology. Remember
to join the Geology Students Club and quickly feel at home by attending the social activities.
The Centre for Ore Deposit Research
The Centre for Ore Deposit Research, or CODES, is jointly funded by the Federal Government and the minerals industry to undertake research on the geological and geochemical processes involved in the formation of
mineral deposits. CODES is the premier centre in the world for ore deposit research and attracts students from
across Australia and overseas to undertake our specialist courses for both undergraduate and postgraduate
(Honours, Masters and PhD) study. Staff in the centre work closely with the minerals industry in the location
and discovery of mineral deposits world wide. Currently our staff and students are involved in projects in all
Australian states plus overseas locations in Chile, Peru, Spain, Portugal, Sweden, Zambia, Canada, USA, Indonesia, PNG, S.W. Pacific Islands, Greece, Russia and China.