How to become An Oceanographer

More than 70 per cent of the Earth is covered by oceans, which continue to boggle us with their mysterious contents. Oceanographers use their hard-earned scientific expertise to bring into the open the secrets of the oceans and their contribution to our planet’s well-being.

• Marine Biologist 
• Marine Chemist 
• Marine Physicist 
• Marine Geologist

What does an Oceanographer do? 

An Oceanographer would typically need to:

• Use mathematical, engineering and scientific theories to study the physical and chemical properties of oceans and their impact on coastal areas, climate and weather
• Plan, organise and guide field research expeditions; collect sample data using appropriate machinery and techniques 
• Utilise special equipment such as marine robots, remote sensors, and underwater vehicles to collect data and conduct research 
• Analyse samples collected; ensure that the sample has an accurate natural to contaminant ratio; examine the samples in a laboratory setting 
• Record and interpret data; write reports concerning research efforts 
• Use computational and mathematical modelling to depict simulations of ocean phenomena 
• Create hypotheses and predictions using sample data, models and other research materials 
• Give lectures and create presentations that showcase findings and research thesis; publish research; edit papers; write reviews and articles 
• Attend oceanography conferences, workshops, training courses and field research trips 
• Stay updated with research, publications, new knowledge and ideas; write and submit research proposals; develop proposals to obtain funding

Generally, Oceanographers spend a considerable amount of time working in a lab, in front of a computer or a university classroom. However, they also need to be prepared to spend time away at sea on a remote offshore platform to collect samples for data and research. Oceanographers should be comfortable using diving equipment and submersible vehicles underwater.

An Oceanographer's working hours depend on their place of employment and the current project they are working on. Deadlines may warrant extra hours; however, weekend and shift work are rare when on land. 

On the other hand, hours when you are at sea, are irregular; furthermore, you may spend anywhere between a few days to a few months at sea, depending on the work. 

Finding a new job might seem challenging. Oceanographers can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting companies directly, using job search platforms, going to job fairs, leveraging social media, and inquiring at staffing agencies.

Oceanographers are generally employed by:

• Universities and Educational Institutions
• Research Institutes
• Environmental Agencies 
• Environmental & Engineering Consultancies
• Governmental Departments 
• Conservation Agencies 
• Non-profit Organisations 
• The Navy 
• Pressure Groups 
• Marine Science Organisations
• Geoscientist Organisations 
• Meteorological Institutions 
• Marine Transport Companies 
• Zoos & Aquariums
• Port & Harbour Authorities
• Emergency Response Organisations

Professional associations and organisations, such as The Oceanography Society (TOS), The International Association for the Physical Sciences of the Oceans (IAPSO), Conservation International, and The European Network of Marine Stations (MARS), are crucial for Oceanographers interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation.

Professional associations and international organisations also allow you to get involved in various research or conservation projects. Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.

• Working at sea can be physically demanding and dangerous when the weather is bad 
• Bidding for funding and finding appropriate funding for your research ideas can be time-consuming and frustrating
• Staying away from family and friends when working on a project abroad or when at sea can be tough

Oceanography is a competitive field; relevant prior work experience can help you narrow your area of interest, develop your skillset and stand out amongst your peers. Any work experience with marine life, research and the nautical field, in general, will prove advantageous.

Prospective Oceanographers can volunteer or intern at NGOs or governmental agencies that run conservation research expeditions. Such activities will help you develop your fieldwork and research skills and increase your marine science and oceanography knowledge.

While at university, you can intern at relevant organisations, research with a professor, or undergo a collaborative project with faculty and other students. You can also study or intern abroad for a semester in a marine laboratory. 

You can contact various marine laboratories and centres to get information on their internship and volunteering opportunities. Alternatively, you can take advantage of professional organisations or associations with student memberships and access suitable opportunities and networks.

After obtaining your bachelor’s degree, you can also take a gap year for internship and volunteer work. Work experience gained through entry-level support or technical positions will work in your favour. Postdoctoral research experience comes in handy when making important decisions on areas of particular interest.

Typically, Oceanographers obtain a degree in physical, chemical or biological oceanography, marine sciences, chemical or marine geology, geography, ecology, biology, chemical or physical sciences, geosciences, computer science, software engineering, geophysics, mathematics, hydrology or environmental science. 

Regardless of the subjects they major, minor, and specialise in, an aspiring Oceanographer should have adequate academic knowledge of marine biology, ocean minerals, molecular methods, ocean waves, marine microplankton ecology, marine hydrodynamics, computing, mathematical modelling and remote sensing.

Most positions demand a research-based MSc or PhD in the subjects mentioned above. Candidates with postgraduate qualifications are preferred since they would have specialised and developed their research interests. It is possible to obtain entry-level support or technical positions with a relevant HND (a higher national diploma or associate degree), but they are rare. A suitable bachelor’s degree may fetch you internships and assistant-level positions.

Make sure your high school curriculum includes math, biology, chemistry, geography, environmental sciences and English.

While certification is optional, it makes an Oceanographer eligible for a wider variety of jobs and gives them access to broader networking opportunities from the certifying organisation or board. If the employer does not require one, voluntary certification from a reputed and objective organisation may also be a viable alternative to a bonafide license.

Additional certifications in super specialisations such as saltwater/freshwater marine life or wetland preservation will help you stand out in the job market, as would more general certifications in communication skills, computer literacy and numeracy.

Oceanographers who work with the general public may need to acquire a government license. Licensed Oceanographers are usually referred to as geoscientists. Typically, licensure requires an application, processing fees, an examination, and relevant education and experience. Check-in with local or national oceanography organisations to find whether you will need licensure.

Career progression is often self-driven in this field. So, acquiring a master’s or doctorate should be a competitive Oceanographer’s number one priority. If working as a scientist, you should remain flexible and adaptable; look for job and project opportunities outside your current geographical location; it may be time to venture into international waters.

With experience and quality publications, an Oceanographer can get promoted to Senior Scientist, wherein they lead and manage a team of researchers and scientists. 

Within academia, you would have to balance teaching alongside your research to drive career progression. The networks you build and your reputation will help contribute to the research of fellow faculty members or get involved in student projects. Depending on the funding, you may need to focus on other research areas apart from your own specialism. With enough experience, you can become the head of your department.

In the private sector, or when working with a government agency, career progression depends on your role, the scope of the company or specific project, and the political and economic climate, especially if working in the energy sector. 

Candidates with adequate knowledge, experience and research skills in oceanography have the best job prospects.

Continuing professional development (CPD) will help an active Oceanographer build personal skills, research skills, and proficiency through work-based learning, a professional activity, formal education, or self-directed learning.

Oceanographers are often trained on the job, where they learn from senior colleagues, scientists from other disciplines and specialists in different concentrations. Involvement in projects, research opportunities and publications is crucial in this field. 

Undertaking original research, collaborative work, seminars, secondments, internships and voluntary work during postgraduate studies build your research and writing skills, specialised knowledge and experience.

Marine laboratories and research organisations may offer workshops or training in niche topics. Professional associations and organisations also provide certification and training courses, hold conferences and have workshops regularly. All such activities can contribute to your professional development and help you network with like-minded individuals.

You can also look for CPD opportunities abroad via short projects at marine institutes. Gaining chartered status through an authorised professional body or acquiring certification in one or more specialisations will also help an experienced Oceanographer’s career advancement.

Narrowing Down To The Specialities

Although Oceanographers specialise in one or more of the four subdisciplines, they are interrelated and require keen insight into the sciences.

Biological Oceanographers and Marine Biologists study flora and fauna of marine environments in relation to their numbers, developmental interactions with each other and the environment, and adaptations. Their tools of the trade include field observations, computer models and laboratory or field experiments.

Chemical Oceanographers and Marine Chemists explore the composition of seawater. They also monitor its cycles and processes to understand its chemical interactions with the seafloor and the atmosphere, the effects of pollutants and the influence of chemical processes on marine organisms. Furthermore, they strive to identify ocean resources that may be helpful, perhaps as medicines.

Geological Oceanographers and Marine Geologists survey the ocean floor - the sediments and rocks, mountains, valleys, trenches, volcanic processes, hydrothermal circulation, magma genesis, and how crusts are formed. Their research helps reveal the historical processes that created the ocean basins and the symbiosis between the ocean and the seafloor.

Physical Oceanographers and Marine Physicists investigate the physical conditions of the oceans and the physical processes that occur, such as waves, tides, deep currents, coastal erosion and interactions between the ocean and the atmosphere. They also observe how ocean-atmosphere interactions influence the weather and climate and the transmission of light and sound through water.

Add To Your Competence

Practical skills such as scuba diving and sub-aqua diving, first aid, and boat handling and navigating skills will help you play the role of a competent Oceanographer with ease.

Once You Graduate

Oceanography is an exciting field filled with potential. At times, the many options you have as a young graduate can be overwhelming. The key to success is to stay flexible. Be ready to try new things, even if you think you won’t be good at them, since new experiences will help you develop your skills.

Conduct informational interviews and get to know your peers and possible employers by networking. Include relevant information about employers in your cover letters to show your interest and knowledge, and ensure cover letters are error-free.

Always send a thank-you note after an interview to leave a good impression on potential colleagues and employers. 

The most extended mountain range on Earth is at the bottom of the ocean - the Mid-Ocean Ridge. It is 65,000 km long and wraps around the globe in a pattern like the stitches of a baseball.

Scientists have barely scratched the surface of the oceans in terms of their composition and influence on our planet. Oceanographers play a critical role in leading the way and furthering our scientific knowledge about the oceans, which are vital to our very existence.

Remember to manage your time and stress in a manner that allows you to have time for yourself as well, outside of your work life. Avoiding burnout is crucial for your personal and professional well being.