Geochemist : Training

Although training varies between employers, it is generally provided on an informal basis while working. Learning on the job usually involves gaining additional skills and knowledge by working closely with a more experienced or senior colleague. New recruits are expected to pick up additional laboratory or other practical research skills quickly. For consultancy work, being able to develop an understanding of business issues, such as project management and budgets, is essential.

Some employers provide the opportunity to gain further qualifications if they are likely to enhance an individual's work. Employers may also provide formal training in the form of in-house and external courses on topics such as business, personal development and safety training. Technical and IT training is also usually provided. For jobs that involve field work, employers are likely to provide training in survival skills, such as crevasse rescue.

Membership of professional bodies and specialist organisations, such as the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3)  and the Geological Society , can provide professional development opportunities.

Professional accreditation is obtained through the Geological Society, which offers chartered geologist (CGeol) and chartered scientist (CSci) status. If you are an undergraduate on an honours degree course in geology, you can join the Society as a Candidate Fellow during your studies and for up to one year after graduation, at a heavily discounted cost of £15 per year or £40 for the whole duration of study.

It is essential that geochemists keep up to date with new research and commercial developments, because there are frequent changes in the industrial and academic fields. It is therefore useful to attend relevant short courses, seminars, conferences and networking events, and to subscribe to professional journals.