Do you love the mystery of the deep ocean? Have you always wanted to dive beneath the waves and explore? From oceanographers to shark researchers to invertebrate biologists, careers in marine science will allow you to explore any number of STEM disciplines. Investigate the diversity of career opportunities connected to our ocean resources.
Our coastal areas throughout the world are being impacted by sea level rising, construction, resource extraction and recreational use, and yet they are some of the most densely populated areas in the world. Coastal engineers look at all these issues and try to answer questions like “What if this happens?” and “What can we do to reduce the impact of these changes?” Coastal engineers spend time observing the changes, building models of the area to simulate the changes, and then try to design solutions before the real-world situation progresses out of control. They work at learning and improving situations on an international scale. Their principal tools include mathematics, physics, geology and engineering through the use of computers and physical models.
Coral biologists combine specific elements of marine biology and conservation biology to research, experiment, or develop conservation actions to improve and sustain some of the oldest animals on the planet - coral reefs. While not required, these scientists often spend time underwater conducting experiments and restoring fragile reef ecosystems so a love of the outdoors and a sense of adventure is a bonus!
The United States Geological Survey is a broad ranging agency studying everything from earthquakes to endangered species in the US. This scientist is involved in the study of coastal coral reef degradation, and approaches for the conservation and restoration of said reefs. The job description is quite similar to that of the coral reef biologist for her position. “Let your curiosity take you” was the advice given by our marine biologist. If you follow your interest you will find you motivation.
A research coordinator does just that, they coordinate all the various aspects of research projects within a project area or laboratory facility in order to maximize the effective use of time and resources. They have more general interests and training in a variety of research areas to enable them to work effectively with different disciplines, troubleshoot potential problems and provide solutions. A research coordinator is inquisitive, has a broad background, takes an active role in their projects and, hopefully, is a jack-of-all-trades.
If you’re looking for an adventurous job, maybe a career studying the ocean’s predators is just right for you! While shark biologists spend their lives dedicated to diving and observing these incredible animals, they spend much more time teaching, writing grants and reports, requesting permits, and advocating to balance the economic interests of fishermen with the ecological influence of top predators!
Aquaculture is the process of raising food in aquatic systems, be they fresh or saltwater. A shellfish biologist focuses on the development of sustainable food systems, such as developing an oyster hatchery. This involves the study of marine biology and zoology and oceanography, as well as economics and sociology; you need to know not only how to raise the animals but also how much it will cost and will people eat them. There is a balance between indoor hatchery work and outdoor grow-out work, and at the end you produce a food in a sustainable and low-impact method, for the most part.
