When we think science, we think academic; the word however, refers not just to the subject but to so much more. And when we look at careers in science, most of us assume it has to be stodgy and staid, most probably in stale and sterile research labs. But science and the careers it offers can be a whole lot fun and adventurous, as you’ll find out when you meet and interact with a benthic ecologist.
If you’ve never heard the word before, benthic refers to all organisms and activities that are associated with the bottom of the ocean floor. So you can guess that a benthic ecologist is concerned with the ecology of the depths of the ocean. If you want to become one, you must take various courses in science, one of which must be a doctorate or at least a master’s degree in either biology or ecology. You will be able to find a position with companies that conduct marine ecological surveys, research ships that are interested in the deep ocean and in mapping its floor, or with marine science institutes.
As a benthic ecologist, you will be involved in cutting edge research in the laboratory and in the exploration of the ocean floor in state-of-the-art submersibles. You will have to know something about technology as well because most deep sea missions involve handling sophisticated gadgets and equipment in submersibles. With space at a premium, the ecologist must also be capable of planning and coordinating dive operations and the deployment and operation of benthic camera systems, current meter moorings and plankton pumps.
Your job is bound to be exciting and stable at the same time, depending on how often you are in the field and how much time you spend in the laboratory. There is a certain amount of danger as well because you are going to be working at the bottom of the ocean floor, but with technology being what it is today and the right safety measures in place, benthic ecology is one career that is both exciting and rewarding.
This guest article was written by Adrienne Carlson, who regularly writes on the topic of forensic scientist schools . Adrienne welcomes your comments and questions at her email address: adrienne.carlson83@yahoo.com
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