Geologist
Geology is the study of the solid earth, its rocks and minerals.
Geologists are the 'field hands' of earth science: without ground-based
observation to confirm or expand on space-based tools, we would have an
incomplete or even inaccurate picture of our planet. Geologists
understand how the dynamic forces which shape our earth work, and use
this knowledge to predict their affect on mankind.
Earthquakes, volcanoes and soil erosion affect all of us: even if the
geological event occurs halfway around the world, we are all touched to
a greater or lesser extent. Food grown in Nebraska depends on accurate
soil sampling, land erosion monitoring and water drainage information
all provided by earth scientists with a geological background.
Fishermen who experience a 'drought' of fish look to geologists to
explain silting, underwater seismic events or other phenomena in order
to react appropriately.
More than just naming rocks and digging up fossilized bones, geologists
tell us the story of the earth. That story goes back billions of years,
and leaves its impression in the very ground we walk on. If that story
is one you want to help tell, a career in geology and earth science is
for you!
Updated: January 22, 2003
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