Geophysicist/field seismologist: Job description

A geophysicist/field seismologist studies physical aspects of the earth and uses complex equipment to collect data on earthquakes and seismic waves, which move through and around the earth. The geophysicist's main responsibility is controlling data quality by monitoring displays and performing some initial interpretation.

Job descriptions vary according to the area of employment. The work may include:

• working within a research institute to investigate seismological structures and provide seismological information to the public and government;
• undertaking seismic exploration and producing controlled source seismic data for an oil company or consultancy;
• providing environmental consultancy, e.g. investigation of landfill sites, using geophysical techniques;
• supporting an equipment pool for UK academic seismologists within academia.

Typical work activities

Geophysicists work in the field, which may be onshore or offshore and typical work activities include:

• pre-planning projects before going on site;
• deciding on suitable seismic measurement and data-processing techniques;
• taking equipment out to various locations around the world and deploying seismometers;
• observing the reaction of recording equipment to detect irregularities;
• using computers for data management, quality control and communication between the office and field locations;
• interpreting and reporting on collected data to the team, clients, senior managers or partners at meetings and presentations;
• thinking quickly and independently to solve problems, often with limited resources in remote locations;
• designing, testing, modifying and repairing seismic equipment;
• adapting data collection procedures;
• working closely with a small team of scientists and other staff who may be away in the field or offshore for several weeks at a time;
• compiling charts and reports;
• writing documentation and work logs;
• training and advising other users (mainly academics and PhD students);
• improving existing techniques in data acquisition and mathematical processing, as well as seeking to develop new techniques and methods.