Typically, becoming a geochemist necessitates a mix of education and experience. The majority of geochemists have a bachelor’s degree in geology, chemistry, physics, or a combination of the three disciplines. Most of them also have a master’s or doctorate degree. However, education only prepares one to be a geochemist. To become a geochemist, one must first find employment in the field.
Geochemistry is the study of chemistry’s interaction with geology, as the name implies. Geochemist jobs are concerned with the earth’s chemical composition and the scientific reactions that resulted in the formation of the planet’s many elements. You’ll need an aptitude for scientific calculations, a scientific mind, and a curiosity about why things are the way they are in the natural world to become a geochemist.
Most geochemists begin their careers in college or university. It may not be possible to major in geochemistry at your school because the field is complex, and even large universities do not always have enough demand to support a major program in every discipline. If you want to be a geochemist, you should major in chemistry, geology, or even physics. Geochemistry is usually woven into these courses, especially at the graduate level. Geochemistry electives are occasionally available; if so, be sure to sign up.
When it comes to planning a geochemistry career, professors are usually one of the best resources. Once you’ve decided to pursue a career as a geochemist, set up a meeting with your professor to discuss options for further education as well as job prospects. Professors often have insider knowledge of under-the-radar summer study and internship opportunities, as well as connections in the field who they could put you in touch with.
Geochemists work in a variety of settings around the world, from research labs and institutions to excavation sites and field testing grounds. A geochemist’s job description typically includes a combination of fieldwork, lab work, and research. The responsibilities of a geochemist range from presenting academic papers to isolating chemical compounds from soil and rock samples.
When you first decide to become a geochemist, you don’t necessarily need to know what type of work you want to do. Even if a summer program or work study project does not appear to be particularly appealing at first, you may find something to enjoy or at the very least learn from it. Work experience almost always aids in the search for a new job or admission to graduate school.
After receiving their undergraduate degrees, many students find entry-level geochemist jobs right away. Although this is the quickest way to become a geochemist, most professionals continue on to further their education at some point in their careers. Students sometimes go straight from college to graduate school, but it is more common for students to work for a few years, figure out exactly what they want to study in greater depth, and then enroll in a highly specialized master’s or doctorate program. Graduate programs give students the opportunity to hone the skills they developed in college and on the job. Most programs allow students to concentrate on a single area of geochemistry to the point where they can be considered experts.