A Scientist Who Studies Volcanoes

Volcanology is the scientific study of volcanoes and the geophysical functions that create them.

What Does a Volcanologist Do?

Volcanologists collect data almost volcanic action and then study these findings. Typically they will travel to a location where a dormant or agile volcano resides to collect samples. They and so examine this data in a laboratory, unremarkably for one of three purposes: to empathise why volcanoes behave, to understand how volcanoes piece of work, and to predict future eruptions for the condom of local populations. Some will also written report the geological history of a detail volcano. Depending on their place of employment, some Volcanologists may also teach private classes or the public about the importance of volcanoes.

Where Does a Volcanologist Work?

Typically, Volcanologists split their workdays betwixt conducting fieldwork and working in a laboratory. During fieldwork, scientists may be required to venture to exotic or isolated locations where active or dormant volcanoes reside. They must collect various samples and data, by and large in an outdoor expanse. Those hoping to become a Volcanologist must be prepared to travel, spend extended periods of time away from domicile, perform strenuous physical activities, and brave adverse weather conditions. Once they have finished collecting samples, they return to their laboratory to clarify their data. They then must communicate their findings to a group of scientists. Volcanologists employed past universities may too be required to spend time in a classroom environment.

Nigh of these scientists work total-time and may be required to work extended hours when performing fieldwork, which is quite frequent.

What is the average Volcanologist'due south salary?

Volcanologists, who autumn under the broader BLS category of geoscientists, earned a median salary of $93,580 as of May 2020, with the highest ten% earning effectually $201,150 and the lowest x% earning around $51,890.*

Volcanologist Jobs & Job Description

Volcanologists attempt to decipher what clues rocks leave backside about the inner workings and chemistry of the earth. While there are many exciting aspects to a volcanologist career, virtually assignments study the remains of either dead or fallow volcanoes. While jobs due vary significantly, the following tasks are establish in every volcanologist job:

Study the processes and deposits of volcanic eruptions
Gather data about where and how volcanoes are likely to erupt
Map the distribution of the rocks that make up the volcano
Perform chemical and dating analyses of stone samples
Measure volcanic seismicity, gravity and magnetics
Study changes in the shape of the Earth and correlate with deformation of the ground at volcanic eruptions
Report volcanic products, such equally emitted gases
Plan and conduct field studies
Clarify aeriform photographs, drilling logs, stone samples, and other information sources
Conduct laboratory tests on samples collected in the field
Make maps and charts with the assistance of additional interdisciplinary data sets
Set up written scientific reports
Present their findings to external stakeholders, colleagues, and other interested parties
Review reports and inquiry done by other scientists
Work with hand tools, heavy equipment, and lab equipment for diagnostic purposes

Senior volcanologists often have a broader scope of responsibilities that include management of a mine or mines as well as operations and personnel. Such responsibilities oft include:

Supervise the work of technicians
Fostering a positive and safe work environment for colleagues
Appoint in positive mentorship with inferior members of the team
Consult on projection scopes, schedules, and budgets
Navigate federal and international protocols, regulations, and best practices
Consult with authorities agencies concerning safe practices and hazards
Oversee equipment and instruments in field and lab settings
Ensure quality balls, organization, and advisable tracking of field information
Oversee the preservation of site integrity
Engage in administrative tasks on behalf of the team
Supervise fieldwork (survey, site recording, testing, monitoring, and data integrity) of multiple field crews
Ensure that safety protocol is followed in the field
Communicate with stakeholders through field condition reports and presentation of team findings

What Is the Job Demand for Volcanologists?

The job demand for Volcanologists is expected to grow 7% in the adjacent 10 years, which is faster than the average profession.* The public's increasing involvement in environmental protection, safe, and management volition spur the upcoming growth in positions.

What Are the Education Requirements to Become a Volcanologist?

Volcanologists require a bachelor's degree at minimum in geology, geophysics, or earth science. Even so, a bachelor's degree typically provides piffling specialized knowledge of volcanoes and will only permit someone to obtain an entry-level position in the field. Most Volcanologists possess either a master's or doctorate degree, assuasive them to larn more advanced knowledge of volcanoes specifically. Those wishing to be employed by universities or seek academic funding would be well served by earning a Ph.D.

In some areas, becoming a Volcanologist that predicts the eruption of volcanoes may require a special license.

Degrees Related to Volcanology

What Kind of Societies and Professional Organizations Do Volcanologists Take?

Volcanologists and those who wish to enter the field tin also browse through these organizations' websites for valuable resources:

The Geological Association of America (GSA) unites all geoscientists, including Volcanologists, into a single group that focuses on promoting the importance of geological study and encouraging advice across related professions to enrich America'south understand of how the concrete realm works. They provide annual meetings, sources for standing teaching, numerous publications, and a chore centre.

International Association of Volcanology and Chemical science of the Earth's Interior (IAVCEI) is a professional association that brings together people who study Volcanology or work in related fields. This group is a fleck more specific than the GSA and provides more specialized meetings and continuing education courses. It also provides some of the latest and greatest news in the profession on the system's website.

*2020 US Bureau of Labor Statistics bacon figures and job growth projections for geoscientists reflect national data non school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed September 2021.