Oceanographers

Job Description:

Oceanographers study the world’s oceans and coastal waters. They study the motion and circulation of the ocean waters and their physical and chemical properties, and how these properties affect coastal areas, climate, and weather. The work of an oceanographer involves conducting studies on samples collected from seas, planning sea trips, and teaching. However, much of it depends upon the area of specialisation that one chooses. Being essentially a research–oriented profession, long periods are spent at the sea with all its challenges and hazards. Oceanographers work in several fields, such as, Geological Oceanography and Physical Oceanography.

Chemical Oceanography deals with the composition and quality of water. They study the effects of pollutants on oceans and work on projects for treatment of industrial solid and sewage waste. Their work is of special relevance today in view of the growing level of pollution.

Geological Oceanography deals with the geological study of the ocean floor and sedimentations. Such studies help in deciding location for marine structures as well as in exploitation of mineral resources of the ocean.

Physical Oceanography deals with the physical phenomenon of the ocean such as waves, tides, current, salinity etc. They study the relationship between these phenomena’s e.g. the relationship between sea weather and climate.

Biological Oceanography or Marine Biology is the study of life processes in the marine environment. Marine biologists research various aspects of marine life like their distribution and migration patterns.

Educational Qualification:

Graduate/Postgraduate degree in Oceanography or Geology

APYL Career Counselor has details on:

83 Institutes offering graduate/postgraduate courses in Oceanography/Geology under Career Fields (a) Humanities (b) E&T and Course Type  (a) Graduate (b) Post Graduate

Opening:

The major employment opportunities are available in the Government sector organizations, like Geological Survey of India, Meteorological Survey of India, Department of Oceanography and public sector undertakings, like Oil and Natural Gas Commission etc. Companies in the private sector with interests in the marine industries, products or research also provide job options.

Remuneration:

Starting salary is Rs. 7,500 per month (excluding other allowances)