Volcanologist

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The role

Volcanologists study volcanoes: how they form, how they erupt, and what their eruptions mean for people and the planet. It's a branch of earth science that mixes geology, chemistry and physics. The work matters because volcanoes can threaten lives, homes and air travel, so understanding them helps keep communities safe.

Day to day, you might be out in the field collecting rock, ash and gas samples, then back in the lab or office analysing what you found. You'll use sensors and monitoring equipment to track volcanic activity, study data on a computer, and write up your findings. Some volcanologists work near active volcanoes abroad, while others focus on research and modelling in the UK.

You'll need to be curious, patient and good at solving problems with data. Strong maths and science skills help, along with being practical and careful during fieldwork. The rewarding part is uncovering how our planet works and knowing your research could warn people before a dangerous eruption.

• Curiosity: You're driven to understand how the Earth behaves beneath the surface.
• Science skills: A solid grasp of geology, chemistry and physics underpins everything you do.
• Data analysis: You can read patterns in numbers and monitoring readings to spot what's happening.
• Fieldwork stamina: You're happy working outdoors in tough, sometimes remote conditions.
• Communication: You can explain risks and findings clearly to scientists, officials and the public.
• Teamwork: Much of the work involves collaborating with other researchers, often across countries.

Daily responsibilities

• Collect rock, ash and gas samples during field studies near volcanic sites.
• Set up and check monitoring equipment that measures volcanic activity.
• Analyse data from sensors to track changes in a volcano's behaviour.
• Examine samples in the lab to learn about their chemistry and origins.
• Write up research findings in reports and scientific papers.
• Contribute to safety assessments and hazard warnings for at-risk areas.
• Work with other scientists and institutions to share data and ideas.

Does a degree help here?

A UK education provides a strong foundation in geology and environmental science, with access to cutting-edge research and fieldwork opportunities. Universities in the UK often collaborate with leading geological institutions, giving you an edge in this exciting field.