A day in the life of...
On this page you will find career stories from all kinds of geoscientists. Click the menu below to jump to a story that interests you, or read through at your leisure.
Geothermal energy research
Structural geology
Teri Hayes: Environmental Director at AWN Consulting Ltd.
'I get to share cups of tea with locals and meet lots of interesting people from all kinds of backgrounds'
My journey & career story
After completing secondary school in Co. Limerick, Terry went to Trinity College Dublin to study Geology for her undergraduate degree. She then continued specialising by completing a Masters degree at the University of Birmingham in Hydrogeology. She then decided to work as a consultant, which she has done for the past 30 years, and is now the Environmental Director of the Dublin-based Consultancy company called AWN Consulting Ltd.
What do you do in your job?
I work with diverse teams (engineers, architects, all types of scientists and finance people) - on the laptop and in the field. Communication is the most important tool, and getting on with people as we are all busy but trying to reach the same goal. It's important to have a laugh along the way. ​​
What do you enjoy most about your job?
"My main learning from school was about working well in teams, how to research something and look at things from both sides."
I always learn new things and meet new people!
I also enjoy the work with multi-disciplinary teams & having a real-life impact by coming up with new mitigation solutions.
Do you have advice for current secondary school students?
There are so many enjoyable and good opportunities in geoscience.
Get a good basic degree and maybe try out a few different areas before doing a Masters degree.​​
Favourite subject(s) in school:
​Chemistry & Geography
​
School subject that surprised me to be useful in my career:
Maths
Geothermal energy research
Structural geology
Eoin Byrne: Engineering Geologist
'The Great Outdoors'
My journey & career story
After completing secondary school in Co. Dublin, Eoin went to Trinity College Dublin to study Earth Science for his undergraduate degree. As he was writing his undergraduate thesis, the Head of Trinity's geotechnical lab recommended that he should apply for a junior role in a relevant company. Seven years later, and Eoin is still working at the same company, Ground Investigations Ireland.
Eoin says: "I had secured my job two months after graduating which is unusual in other fields."
What do you do in your job?
​​​My job is a mix of field- and office-based.
When working in the field, I collect samples, analyse the data and then process the findings into a report that assesses the site I sampled .
​
You may have a single job which involves dealing with hundreds of landowners and you learn a lot about different parts of Ireland by engaging with the locals for prolonged periods. The best thing about the job is the variety of projects and locations, while the worst would obviously be Ireland's sometimes crappy weather.
Even now I still use things I learned in school about soil creep and river bed gradings and floodplains to tailor my site reports.
I originally wanted to get into mining but I was drawn to geotechnics after doing a large job for a bridge in Athlone that held my interest and led me to stay in my current field.
I've been an engineering geologist for 7 years and currently have 2 juniors who work under me on my team.
​
There is a dogma that a job is either office based or out in the elements, but with this role, I have an academic and technical slant & not being desk-bound for the rest of my life was very appealing to me. I enjoy learning for it's own sake but also like being outside and dealing with new people constantly and my job provides that.​​​​​
What do you enjoy most about your job?
"When hiking over Lough Ouler in a miserable hungover state, I found that right at the crest of the backwall there was a green granite dyke running straight through the proudest point of the corrie.
That improved my mood immeasurably and I took a chunk home that sits on my desk now."
Favourite subject(s) in school:
History​
​
School subject that surprised me to be useful in my career:
Geography
Travel around the country looking at sites and carrying out digs and boreholes to describe the make up of the ground to aid the design of construction projects
Do you have advice for current secondary school students?
It's a challenge that get's rewarded. There is a satisfaction to working at the top of your game in the worst kind of weather.
Probing rig used for geotechnical and environmental ground investigations.
Geothermal energy research
Structural geology
Aileen Doran: Risk and Sustainability Consultant
'Exploring the fun of the unknown'
My journey & career story
After completing secondary school in County Wexford, I initially wanted to study psychology but came across the Earth Science degree instead. I went on to study Earth System Sciences at University College Cork, specialising in Geology. Following graduation, I worked as a Graduate Geologist with the Geological Survey of Ireland on the TELLUS programme. After this, I completed a PhD at University College Dublin focusing on Irish base metal geochemistry, followed by a postdoctoral role at UCD researching copper–cobalt mineralisation and geology in Zambia. After leaving academia, I transitioned into industry and now work as a Sustainability and Raw Materials consultant, with a growing focus on risk management.
What do you do in your job?
​I am a geologist by background and we work with a lot of mining companies. I get to work with lots of companies who are working to supply the critical materials needed for a green energy transition, and we get to support them in operating in the most sustainable and responsible way possible.
​
​My work is quite flexible. Sometimes we have in person workshops or events, where we engage with people from all over the world. Other times it is very desk based, and we are working on data sets, presentations, or reports. The people I work with are all passionate about making positive changes in the world, and we are encouraged to persue activities that support this. During every project, we work with different people and we get to meet incredibly interesing people from around the world and support them in making a difference. While I am no longer directly in geoscience, it is still a crucial part of everything I do and it has shaped who i am in the sustainability space. I did not think i wanted to be a geoscientist, and really did not know anything about it. I thought of 'rocks' and assumed it was boring, but geology is connected to everything around us in ways I couldn't have imagined. So while I accidently eneded up in the geology space, I am glad to have found it.
"During my PhD I was lucky enough to win funding to travel to Canada for 6 weeks. I turned this into a 2 and a half month stay, where I got to travel from coast to coast, and even got to build a snowman up the rockies."
What do you enjoy most about your job?
It changes from week to week - some weeks I will be helping to run a workshop on risk or mining concepts or other training. Other times, I will be working as part of a team to deliver sustainability support to a company or reviewing their approach to risk management to find an approach that helps them to achieve their objectives.
Do you have advice for current secondary school students?
Always go after an opportunity or project you want - the worst someone will say is no, but you will regret it if you don't try. Geology has a place for everyone.
Favourite subject(s) in school:
Physics​
School subject that surprised me to be useful in my career:
Art
Geothermal energy research
Structural geology
Alex Fuentes: Consultant and Data Manager
'Surprising, messy, but incredibly fulfilling'
My journey & career story
After completing secondary school, I moved to London to study a degree in Geography and Geology, eventually specialising in Geology at the University of Leicester. After graduating, I began working in the private sector at a mining consultancy, where I worked as a GIS (Geographic Information Systems) analyst.
At that point, I wasn’t certain that geoscience was the right long-term career for me, so I took a different path and tried to build a career in historical re-enactment. While this was a valuable experience, it helped me realise how much I missed working in geoscience. I returned to university to complete a Master’s degree in Geospatial Science at University College London.
Since then, I have worked as a freelance GIS specialist for a range of companies and now work at Satarla, continuing my career in the private sector. Although I only studied a small amount of GIS during my first degree, it became the area of geoscience I was most drawn to—likely because of my lifelong love of maps and curiosity about the stories told by both people and the planet across space and time. My career path hasn’t been a straight line, but stepping away from geoscience helped me confirm that it is a field I am passionate about and proud to work in.
What do you do in your job?
I work in the area of sustainability and raw materials, helping to understand how we can responsibly provide the resources we need to support modern life, both now and in the future. These raw materials are essential for things like renewable energy technologies, smartphones, and satellites. A key part of my job is considering how these materials can be sourced in ways that minimise impacts on people and the environment.
My role is mainly desk-based, but it also involves travel to other countries and working with researchers and experts from across the EU and beyond. As someone who loves the outdoors, I sometimes miss doing fieldwork. Although I don’t use specific school subjects every day, the critical thinking skills and curiosity I developed at school are extremely important in my work.
I didn’t always plan to work in the geosciences. At school, I thought I might become an archaeologist or work in politics, and my university degree initially combined geography and geology before I specialised fully in geology. I have been working in my current role at Satarla for the past two years.
"The company I work for (Satarla) made a documentary with UCD and the Natural History Museum London, called 100 Perceptions: Raw Materials to explore how people's perceptions towards raw materials can change when better informed. At the film premiere I met Matt Baker (ex. Blue Peter, children's show) whose production company filmed it. A strange but pleasant experience to meet the man I grew up watching on TV every day!"
What do you enjoy most about your job?
A truly diverse amount of things: from participating in EU funded research projects to creating a podcast about resource management.
​The best thing for me is the massive diversity of work I'm involved in, from workshops to web development, research to resource management.
Favourite subject(s) in school:
Geography​
School subject that surprised me to be useful in my career:
Ancient History - in my opinion knowledge of the humanities makes for a more well rounded geoscientist.
Do you have advice for current secondary school students?
​Geoscience is more than just mining, we need people passionate about the Earth to help us achieve a green and just transition.
Rebecca Ní Chonchubhair: Hydrogeologist
'Following the stream underground​'
My journey & career story
After completing secondary school in County Dublin, I studied Earth Sciences at Trinity College Dublin. I then went on to complete a Master’s degree in Volcanology and Geohazards at Lancaster University. Although I knew there were limited job opportunities in volcanology in Ireland and the UK and didn’t want to move straight into research, I chose the course because it was something I was genuinely interested in.
​
During my Master’s degree, I took a module in hydrogeology, which I really enjoyed—particularly the maths and data analysis involved. This helped me realise that hydrogeology might be a good career path for me. At the time, not having a driving licence limited some job options, but I secured an internship with the Geological Survey of Northern Ireland, where I discovered how much I enjoyed the work.
When the internship ended, my manager introduced me to a hydrogeologist working in consultancy, which led to my first full-time role. I spent two and a half years working in consultancy, gaining valuable experience, but always hoped to return to the Geological Survey if the opportunity arose. I now work as a hydrogeologist with the Geological Survey of Northern Ireland, helping to improve our understanding of groundwater and hydrogeology for the benefit of everyone.
What do you do in your job?
My job is a mixture of desk based work and field work. At the geological survey we work to improve our understanding of the geological environment and specifically for me, the groundwater environment. I try to learn as much as I can about the aquifers (rock units that can store and transmit water) across the country to improve how they are managed and protected.
A day in the field can involve sampling groundwater from water wells for chemical analysis. I also carry out pumping tests where water is pumped from a well and the water level in the well monitored which can tell us about how much water is stored in the aquifer below and how we can take that water out and use it sustainably.
The days in the field are always a welcome break from sitting in the office but I also enjoy data analysis and maths so love analysing the graphs and chemistry data we gather. The more data the better. The admin tasks we need to do every week are tedious but that would be the case for any job, particularly when working close to government.
Favourite subject(s) in school:
Geography
School subject that surprised me to be useful in my career:
Maths
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I collect data through fieldwork and data curation and create maps to describe the groundwater environment in Northern Ireland. These maps show aquifer properties, groundwater vulnerability and groundwater resource potential among other things.
Do you have advice for current secondary school students?
Follow what you are interested in. Being passionate about what you are doing will help you do well in the field. The job opportunities will come. But if you can, learn to drive as early as possible. ​​
"As part of the British Geological Survey I also had the opportunity to be part of a summer expedition where I spent 6 weeks on a marine drilling vessel looking for and testing a freshwater aquifer below the ocean off the coast of New England in the USA. That was definitely a career highlight, and the food onboard was amazing. It was a very different environment to work in that felt like adult science camp with everyone working enthusiastically 24/7 to find and sample this unique source of freshwater. Being able to help obtain those groundwater samples, which was a first for any IODP expedition was very cool. Lots of individuals around the world are currently working hard to analyze the samples and understand how freshwater can be found below the ocean, which goes to show how international geoscience can be."
Geothermal energy research
Structural geology
Marcos Amores
PhD Researcher in Palaeoclimate
​'Unearthing rocks to answer age-old questions'
My journey & career story
After completing secondary school in Portugal, I went on to university to study a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and Geology. This course was mainly designed to train future secondary-school teachers or students who were still deciding which subject to specialise in. I was an exception, in that I actually still use both fields of science in my day-to-day work.
Before university I used to work for McDonald's, after my bachelors I went straight to a Erasmus-funded masters degree in Paleontology over in France and then Sweden called PANGEA. During this time I got the chance of volunteering at a museum working with old fossil collections and making sure they are in a good state (there were literally tens of thousands of fossils). I then did a 6-months internship at the national history museum in Stockholm working with microscopic plant fossils and their association with climate change that happened some 120 million years ago.
Right now I am a PhD student at University College Cork. They pay me to do research so I believe this counts as a proper job, so I am quite happy I get to work on something I studied for.
What do you do in your job?
My work is 90% desk reading and writing science and 10% going to the field to collect material, doing lab work and engaging with other scientists. ​
The big one for me is that you become an absolute star in knowing how to learn. In other words, you can excel in any field because you can start from nothing and quickly get on with the workings of it all. Of course, you most often will be put aside in favour of someone with a background in a certain field, but you do become a very flexible individual with the potential to work in any knowledge-based area.
Another aspect is definitely the ability to manage projects (and to write well). As a PhD I am taught how to look into something I don't know about and find a gap in understanding, come up with a question and figure out how to answer this question, and do the work and write it down. The last step is sharing it with the world after it's been checked by other specialists, so you are forced to write clearly and engagingly.
Favourite subject(s) in school:
Biology & Geology
What do you enjoy most about your job?
To tell the grand history of the Earth and Life to others.
​Most of my time is spent at a computer going through findings and writing them down. Though the coolest parts are when I go to the field to gather rocks for evidence of our past. I get to fire X-rays to see what they are made off, and to be at a microscope to check microscopic fossils.
Do you have advice for current secondary school students?
"The most unusual thing I have found is how cool and down-to-earth most geoscientists are. Often during field work and in conferences you are simply spending time with other nerds who like history or space or games or movies, et cetera, who all share an interest for rocks and what they can tell us."
Geoscience is not only about rocks, or Geology for that matter. Studying the surface of other planets and the deep sea are also considered Geoscience. Also in today's world these fields have become so specialized that they can definitely accommodate people who would just rather be at a lab, or at a computer analyzing data or writing programs for other scientists.
Most things in our world require materials that come from the Earth so there will never be a lack of jobs in this area. Ireland is a fantastic country for geologists, but it nevertheless is a small country and opportunities are few and between. If you are really keen to be a geoscientist, be aware you are highly likely to have to move to another country to shine.
Emma Chambers
Postdoctoral Researcher
'Earthquake and Volcano Scientist uses Skills to Investigate Renewable Energy in Ireland'​
My journey & career story
After completing secondary school in Bristol in the UK, I studied Geophysics at the University of Southampton from 2010 to 2014 as part of an integrated Master’s (MSci) degree. During my time at university, I gained practical experience by working as a laboratory assistant in my second year, where I helped analyse earthquake data and create a fault map that was later published. I also completed an internship with ION Geophysical between my third and fourth years, which gave me valuable industry experience.
After graduating, I worked at ION Geophysical for two years before deciding to return to university to complete a PhD at the University of Southampton from 2016 to 2020. Following my PhD, I moved to Dublin for my first postdoctoral research role. In 2023, I successfully applied for my own research funding and now work independently on my own research projects.
My career has included both industry and academic research, and gaining hands-on experience during university played an important role in shaping the opportunities available to me.
What do you do in your job?
In my current job I use different types of data to determine the subsurface temperature. This is then used to find areas of high heat suitable for geothermal energy extraction to heat our homes in Ireland.
​
I work on computers using programming skills which are taught in schools as well as using the maths from school in my everyday work. The applications to green energy are relevant when students are being taught about climate change and how to power and heat our homes.
​
I'm a research fellow, which is someone who works at a university and discovers new things that we didn't know before. I have my own project and I supervise and teach students similar to being at school. I chose my job because I liked geography, physics and maths and this job allows me to study volcanoes. I work in a 300 year old building which used to be a house and then a school and a doctors surgery before becoming a research institute (A research institute is similar to a university). I usually work at a computer and calculate how fast sound waves travel. When sound goes through the Earth you can work out what the Earth is made of without having to dig. We can also work out how hot it is. We can make a picture of the underground, and use it to find hot rocks which we can use for geothermal energy. Geothermal energy is heat that rises from the middle of the Earth. In Ireland the temperatures are slightly warm underground so we could heat our houses. It's not hot enough to make electricity. Countries with volcanoes, like Iceland, are very hot underground and this can be used to make electricity and heat their homes. Geothermal energy is renewable meaning we can keep using it and it will never run out! This is really important as coal, oil, and gas (our normal energy resources) are bad for the environment and will run out in the future. I also get to go on seismic fieldwork which involves being outside installing scientific instruments called seismometers which can detect earthquakes and ground vibrations. I've managed to go to some amazing places including Ethiopia, Kenya and New Orleans for fieldwork.
Do you have advice for current secondary school students?
Always be curious and if you're interested in something ask if you can have a go!
Favourite subject(s) in school:
Physics
School subject that surprised me to be useful in my career:
Geography & Maths
Geothermal energy research
Structural geology
John Walsh: Professor of Geology
​'Faulty' geoscientist investigates the Earth!
My journey & career story
After completing secondary school in Co. Dublin, ​​I studied science (and geology in particular) at University College Dublin, followed by a PhD at University of Galway. I first worked as a post-doctoral fellow and then became a Senior Lecturer within the University of Liverpool. I eventually returned to UCD twenty years after I first graduated and have been there since 2000. Throughout my career I have worked closely with colleagues around the world and our research has been supported by government, industry and research councils.
What do you do in your job?
I study all aspects of faults and fractures within the Earth's crust and how they control hazards and earth resources (e.g. energy, groundwater, minerals and water).
​
My work is both desk and field based, and I usually work with a team of people. The best thing about my job is discovering how the world works and communicating that to other scientists and the public. What I learned in school is the basic foundation of all that I have done since. I never thought I'd be lucky enough to get into a subject which I was interested in from a young age, when I first heard about dinosaurs, volcanoes, earthquakes, etc.!
I now feel very lucky to have had a long career as a geoscientist and I continue to enjoy discovering new things about the Earth.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I really enjoy examining the processes that have produced the Earth and investigating how the Earth has evolved through time. It helps that Geoscience is central to the production of building materials, energy, minerals and water, and to the generation and protection of the environment. But in the end it is nice to learn about the Earth we live on!
Do you have advice for current secondary school students?
Explore whatever subjects you are most interested in at school, and if all goes well, you could end up working on something you love to do!
"Getting out in the coast and countryside in many and varied places has been great fun, and it is something I continue to do as often as I can."
Favourite subject(s) in school:
Geography
School subject that surprised me to be useful in my career:
English - writing is a very useful skill, in all forms of science.
Geothermal energy research
Structural geology
Nikita Turton: PhD Researcher
My journey & career story
I was a high school dropout, but that didn't stop me.
I did a Bachelor of Science in Geology and a Master in Science in Geology at Victoria University of Wellington. I am currently doing a PhD in Earth Sciences at University College Dublin.
I have worked for academia and government research.
Loads! I worked in-between high school and university in the hospitality industry - which I think has been a huge reason why I am good at my job now! If you can work in a cafe you can work in a lab! I then started university as a 'mature student'. Between MSc and PhD I worked as a technician in a lab. During my undergrad/early MSc I worked a couple of internships with research facilities during the summer which was a massively cool experience.
What do you do in your job?
I study paleoclimate - climate in the geological past - to understand how the environment changed during times when carbon dioxide was really high.
I am trying to understand what might happen to the climate in the decades to come.
​
​My work is a good mixture of lab based (geochemistry and sedimentology - I basically look at what mud is made up of) and desk based. I sometimes get to go on adventures in the field, but mostly for teaching.
My work is quite collaborative - I am a part of a large international research community that are all working on slightly different aspects of the same research question. It's amazing to get to chat to other scientists to see how their work changes the interpretation of my work and vice versa! Plus I get to travel to see them.
Best part of the job is how satisfying it is to see all of your data coming together into a cohesive story. A lot of paleoclimate research is just like telling a story of what happened in the past using science!
The worst part of the job is the imposter syndrome and self-doubt. It's hard not to compare yourself to others or to not understand how important your work is in the larger scale! That's why it's important to talk to your peers.
I do not have a science background in a traditional sense - I didn't really study science in highschool. But the ability to read and analyse text, skills I learnt in English Literature and History is crucial for our job!
No I truly just stumbled into geoscience.
I am 2.75 years into a 4 year PhD, but I have been a geoscientist for 11 years!
What do you enjoy most about your job?
My favourite aspect of being a geoscientist is being in the lab.
Do you have advice for current secondary school students?
Learn to code!
"Geoscience is so multidisciplinary. Do you like plants? We study those. Do you like chemistry? We do that. Physics? Loads of applications for geophysics! Do you like hiking in the wilderness? You can make a career from that! Astronauts have been geologists!"
Favourite subject(s) in school:
Photography
School subject that surprised me to be useful in my career:
Honestly - graphic design! Communication through images/figures is a huge part of our jobs, and having past experience in Adobe Illustrator (/any graphical program) has been a huge advantage.
I once analysed a sample from a mummified penguin from Antarctica.
(His name was Ralph)
Geothermal energy research
Structural geology
Alex Russell: Geochemist
'Water Rocks'
My journey & career story
Being good at science in school I was funnelled into studying medicine, and although I found medicine fascinating, after some work experience I didn't want to commit to that path. So, I chose a subject area which I was genuinely interested in, which was Chemistry.
I started on a degree in Chemistry at the University of St Andrews, where I was able to take on Earth Sciences and Sustainable Development modules also. After a while, I realised that Earth Sciences was where my true interests were: being outside vs in a lab, studying the natural world vs synthetic world etc.
During my undergraduate I was able to do a short geothermal research project with a company, in addition to undergraduate research. During my undergraduate degree, I found an interest in environmental geochemistry, and in particular related to human health which drew back on my interest in medicine. I spotted a PhD opportunity investigating the presence of naturally-occurring arsenic in Irish drinking water, and jumped on the opportunity. This was at University College Dublin. This pulled together my interests in geology, chemistry, and medicine all in one, as arsenic is naturally sourced from rocks, soils, and waters with complex chemistry and toxicity for human health.
I now work as a geochemist, advising mining clients on water quality to best protect the environment. I use water and rock chemistry to make predictions of water quality if a mine is to open or close down to ensure surrounding environments are protected as best as possible. I also maintain interests in sustainable development and ESG, in addition to EDI initiatives for more a more inclusive geoscience sector.
What do you do in your job?
I am a geochemist, who uses the chemistry of water, rocks, and soils to make predictions of water quality around mine sites. Mining is essential for the green energy transition but its vital we do it in a sustainable and environmentally just manner, so my job helps mining companies to better plan for protecting the environment. ​​
​I have been working as a geochemist for 5 years. I work in an extensive team of experts, including engineers, hydrogeologist, and sustainability experts. My role is primarily desk-based but has the flexibility of being sent to site for sampling campaigns, or to travel to other offices for meetings. My job is very flexible in terms of where I can work, and also very varied in terms of the work I complete with numerous projects in any year.
Favourite subject(s) in school:
Geography
School subject that surprised me to be useful in my career:
French/Spanish - in mining we work on a global scale, so I regularly read reports in French as I work a lot in Québec.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Technology and green energy needs metals, which requires mining. However, for a truly sustainable future and just transition, mining needs to be in balance with biodiversity, local communities, and the surrounding environments. My job seeks to best protect the waters associated to mining, and to consider how can we mine the materials we require in a more sustainable manner.
Do you have advice for current secondary school students?
I didn't picture myself working in geosciences in school, but when I think back on what I enjoyed most in terms of the natural world, the outdoors, and science, then it makes total sense that I do. Geoscientists have a very special way of thinking across other scientific disciplines and applying their skillsets to understand the earth (and other planets). I think unlike some other careers, Geoscientists draw on many subject areas from school including maths for calculations, languages as we work internationally, and English as we need good communication and writing skills.
Geothermal energy research
Structural geology
Rioko Moscardini: PhD Researcher
My journey & career story
After finishing my A levels in Leeds, England, I went straight on to study Environmental Geoscience at Durham University. I then completed a Master’s degree in Petroleum Geoscience at Imperial College London, where I developed a strong understanding of how the subsurface can be used for energy resources.
After my Master’s degree, I worked in London for just under a year at CGG (now called Viridien), where I was part of the geothermal team. This role gave me valuable industry experience and helped me apply what I had learned at university to real-world energy projects. While working there, I saw an opportunity to apply for a PhD that closely matched my interests, which led me to return to university to continue my studies through doctoral research.
%20-%20Rioko%20Moscardini_HEIC.png)
What do you do in your job?
My work involves investigating rocks beneath the ground that can contain warm water trapped between their grains. I study whether this water can be extracted through wells and used as a renewable energy source known as geothermal energy.
Beneath Northern Ireland and the Irish Sea, there are sandstone rocks that were buried around 250 million years ago. These rocks contain naturally heated water, and my research focuses on understanding whether this water can be safely and effectively used for geothermal energy. To do this, I carry out a mix of fieldwork, desk-based data analysis, and detailed laboratory work using microscopes to study the rock grains.
I have been working on this research for nearly three years and have been a geoscientist since graduating from university in 2020. When I first graduated, I didn’t realise that jobs like this even existed, but I’m really glad I followed the subjects and topics that interested me, as they led me into this area of Earth science. My work also involves a lot of collaboration, so meeting and working with new people is always a big bonus.​​
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Meeting new people and the independent research.
Do you have advice for current secondary school students?
If you like one aspect of geoscience but do not like others, that's absolutely fine and there is most likely the job/career you want available! I sit next to someone who is looking at rare earth elements, and a volcanologist who does the polar opposite research to what I do. The skills are also transferable and applicable to many of the science domains too so doing geosciences will not put you in a box.
Favourite subject(s) in school:
Geography
School subject that surprised me to be useful in my career:
Chemistry
The amazing places you get to go for fieldwork, conferences and summer schools are always so fun.
Geothermal energy research
Structural geology
Adam Mann: Postgraduate Researcher
My journey & career story
I've always loved the outdoors and really enjoy hiking and camping, so while I was in 6th year in school, I was considering studying outdoor education. However I also love science, so I decided to blend these two together and study Geography and Geoscience in Trinity College Dublin, where I specialized in Geoscience in my third year. During my time at Trinity, I spent half a year on an Erasmus exchange in Tromsö, in northern Norway at the Arctic University of Norway, and I spent 6 weeks in Greece for my final year project. After graduating, I worked for a year in the private sector for Ground Investigations Ireland as an engineering geologist, where I got to spend a lot of time outdoors. This led me to develop an interest in geotechnical engineering. I pursued this interest when an opportunity arose to undertake a research masters degree at University College Dublin in conjunction with iCRAG, which is where I am currently based.​​
What do you do in your job?
Before starting my Master’s degree, I worked as an engineering geologist. The company I worked for carried out ground investigations, which means they studied soil and rock conditions and advised engineers on how to design safe and effective construction projects.
In this role, I travelled to sites all around Ireland, where I supervised drilling and excavation works and identified the different ground conditions present. This job gave me valuable hands-on experience and helped me understand how geology is used in real construction and engineering projects.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
One of the great things about working as a geoscientist is that it's so varied. As an engineering geologist, I spent most of my days in the field all around Ireland. Even when I was at the office I was usually outside looking at samples. Now as a researcher, my time is split between desk work and lab work and some field work. There are jobs fully outdoors, fully indoors, and everything in between!
Do you have advice for current secondary school students?
Firstly: Definitely do! If you like science and the natural world you won't regret it. And secondly: The great outdoors doesn't usually come to you - so a pair of boots and a driving licence can really come in handy!
Favourite subject(s) in school:
Design and Communication Graphics (Tech Graphics)
School subject that surprised me to be useful in my career:
Physics - this taught me how to think like a scientist
"I once found a section of drilled rock core that was full of very shiny specks. My supervisor got very excited when he looked at it as there was a silver mine located nearby to the spot that the rock was drilled. However we then realised that there was also pyrite (fool's gold) in the rock so most of the sparkles were probably that... but maybe some were silver?"
Sarah Gleeson: Professor of Sustainability Geosciences
_edited.jpg)
'There is always something to learn - never bored!​'
My journey & career story
I studied Geology in Trinity College, the I went to London to do a PhD in Imperial College. I worked as a post-doctoral researcher in London and Leeds and then moved to Canada. I worked in the University of Alberta as a professor. Then I came back to Germany and worked there in research as well before moving back to Dublin in March 2024.
What do you do in your job?
In my work, I try to understand how, and why, large metal deposits form in some places but not in others.
Although I am a scientist and develop my own research questions (and apply for funding to carry out the work), my job is very much about teamwork. Every part of my work involves collaborating with other people. Nobody is good at everything so it is important to figure out what you are good at, and then find other people who are good at the other things to make a great team. In many ways, it is no different from being part of a sports team.
​
My work includes fieldwork, laboratory work, and desk-based research. I usually start with a question—for example, why is the largest underground zinc mine in Europe located in Navan and not somewhere else? I then design a plan to answer that question, often working with industry partners or, in Ireland, with the Geological Survey of Ireland. I might investigate the age of the mineral deposit and the surrounding rocks, examine how the rocks change closer to the deposit, or study the types of minerals present and their potential environmental impact. To do this, I collect samples, analyse them in the laboratory, and use the results to help answer my research questions.​
Favourite subject(s) in school:
Geography
School subject that surprised me to be useful in my career:
​I spend a lot of time editing writing for other people. I had no idea that that would be a major part of my job.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
My favourite time in my career so far was working on my PhD.
However, my current job is sort of like scientific detective work. I like the fact that I am never bored. There are always new questions to answer and people to learn things from.
Do you have advice for current secondary school students?
If you like physical geography and being outside and thinking about our planet, do a geoscience degree!
"When I was in Canada I spent a lot of time doing work from helicopters (there are no roads). The picture is of me standing on rocks that are about 700 million years old. They actually contain evidence of a very ancient glaciation. The fossilized remains of this glaciation are found in rocks of this age all over the world and have led some people to suggest that at that time the whole planet was covered by a sheet of ice. This is called the Snowball Earth Hypothesis. Is it true or not? Do a geoscience degree and see what you think!"
Sean Troy: Project Geologist
'Wonder everyday​'
My journey & career story
I completed secondary school in Dublin and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree from Trinity College Dublin in 2015. I then went on to complete a Master’s degree in Mining Geology at the Camborne School of Mines in 2016.
In 2017, I worked in geological consulting in Australia before returning home to work for a gold exploration company. After that, I worked with the Geological Survey until 2019. I have been working with Teck ever since. Although this all happened over a relatively short period of time, it has given me a very diverse range of experience.
I did not complete an internship during my studies, but I chose to do a Master’s degree because the job market in 2015 was very competitive. Exploration jobs are closely linked to metal prices, so having additional qualifications helped improve my opportunities at the time.
What do you do in your job?
I work with Teck's global generative team to come up brand new exploration projects in areas with no known mineral deposits. We recommend new projects for further study and hopefully discover a new mine.
My job requires a lot of creativity. It is a qualitative job that deals with very incomplete, non-numerical datasets. This is very difficult to replace with AI because of its reliance on human intelligence. But you also have to be aware of logical pitfalls and biases.
Most of my job is desk based. I work from home most days. During the field season (which varies depending on where I work), I will often spend a month or so in the field (hotels or camping). Since COVID I have worked in Ireland, the UK, Canada, Southern Africa, Central Asia, Turkey, the Caucasus, the Balkans and Australia. I do work with a lot of experts but a lot of the work I do is solitary, I do a lot of reading academic papers. I love how challenging it is, it's a very difficult role that requires a lot of creativity. The worst part is probably the underlying instability, mineral exploration is ultimately at the mercy of metal prices. Though my role and company shields me to some extent from this. I use a lot of the skills I've learned rather than the facts I picked up. This is the most important part of education. Teaching you how to learn and overcome challenges rather than knowing everything straight away. The best people are the ones who know what they don't know but know how to get the answer. I originally thought I was going to go into an academic career in Zoology. I've been in my current role for about three years now, I have only worked in geoscience since graduating a decade ago.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Getting into the field and looking at rocks in odd places.
Do you have advice for current secondary school students?
Do it. It's incredibly rewarding with lots of opportunities to travel and should be relatively AI proof. I use a lot of AI in my work but it's genuinely empowering rather than replacing what I do.
​
​AI is empowering those who know how to use it. Knowing how to think and being eager to learn will be more important than rote learning of facts and figures. The current batch of people nearing the end of second level education are facing new challenges, but being keen to learn and improve will always see you right.
Favourite subject(s) in school:
Biology
School subject that surprised me to be useful in my career: ​
Yes, I originally went to university to study Biology but loved the geology electives in first and second year.
"I was eating lunch in a crocodile farm in Namibia when my boss and I were working in the field. I was eating Crocodile nuggets and my boss was eating caterpillars when out of nowhere, the former exploration manager of Teck Ireland walks up with his family (they were on holiday). It's a very small industry where you make lifelong connections with people you repeatedly bump into. Sometimes when you're chowing down on caterpillars."
Rebecca Rivera: PhD Researcher
'Through the looking glass, and into the peat!​'
My journey & career story
I completed secondary school in Dublin and then went on to study at Trinity College Dublin. I entered through the Biomedical and Biological Sciences stream and later chose Environmental Science as my specialism for my third and fourth years.
After finishing my undergraduate degree, I started a PhD straight away. While many people choose to complete a Master’s degree or an internship before beginning a PhD, this isn’t always necessary, and there are different pathways into further study depending on your goals and interests.
What do you do in your job?
As a PhD researcher, I am working on a specific project. My project is looking at microscopic fungi found in peat. These tiny specimens can tell us a lot about the peatland ecosystem, and help us understand past climates, so we can understand climate change better.
​
​My work is primarily desk-based using a computer. I also work in a laboratory to process peat samples, and this allows me to view fungal spores under the microscope. I mostly work alone but there is always friendly faces around for chats during breaks. Flexibility is probably the best thing about my job - I can work at times that suit me best for the most part. PhDs are a long and lonely journey sometimes, and they don't pay great - so that's probably the worst thing. I definitely use things I learned at school in my daily life - it laid a lot of foundational knowledge that I fall back on; for example when writing about my research site in the Wicklow mountains I knew what type of bedrock and geomorphology should be there from leaving cert Geography. I didn't think I'd end up working in geosciences - I sort of stumbled my way into it during my undergrad by process of elimination (I knew what I didn't want to do!). This is my 4th year working this position. I would say we all have the capability to be a geoscientist if we observe our surroundings so it's hard to know "how long", but officially 6 years now!
Favourite subject(s) in school:
History
School subject that surprised me to be useful in my career: Maths - despite failing it for most of secondary school, it became my favourite subject in college.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I get to engage a lot with science communication activities! One of my favourites was working on a fiction piece with a writer about peatlands.
Do you have advice for current secondary school students?
It's such a broad field, you'll more than likely find something you'll enjoy within geoscience. If you have a speck of interest, I'd definitely encourage you to take the leap and try it! I work in a Botany department and come from a biology background - there are endless possibilities.
​Most people don't know what they want to do, so it's okay not to know. You can always change career paths or take the "scenic route".
"I had the opportunity to be on the telly! I took part in the show 10 Things To Know About showcasing my research on RTÉ, which was pretty fun!"
Murray Hitzman: Professor Emeritus
'What a long strange trip it's been​'
My journey & career story
Murray went from university to the private sector then to government and then to teaching in academia, then back to government and finally back to academia.
He has worked around the world.​
​​
Murray has B.A. degrees in geology and anthropology from Dartmouth College (1976), an M.S. in geology from University of Washington (1978), and a Ph.D. in geology from Stanford University (1983). He worked in the petroleum and minerals industries from 1976 to 1993 primarily doing mineral exploration worldwide and was largely responsible for the Chevron Corporationʼs Lisheen Zn- Pb-Ag deposit discovery in Ireland (1990). Prof. Hitzman served in Washington, D.C. as a policy analyst in both the U.S. Senate for Senator Joseph Lieberman (1993-94) and the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (1994-96). In 1996 he was named the Fogarty Professor in Economic Geology at the Colorado School of Mines (CSM) and served as head of the Department of Geology and Geological Engineering from 2002-07.
His research in economic geology at CSM was focused on the Central African Copperbelt. In 2016 he joined the U.S. Geological Survey as the Associate Director for Energy and Minerals and served until late December 2017. He served as the President of the Society of Economic Geologists in 2006. He has previously served on the boards of a number of junior mineral exploration and mining companies. Prof. Hitzman is a co-founder and member of the Internal Steering Committee of the All Island Climate and Biodiversity Research Network (AICBRN), member of the International Scientific Advisory Council for the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ), Helmholtz Centre Potsdam and member of the advisory board for the Lyell Centre, Hariot-Watt University.
Murray was awarded the SEG Silver Medal in 1999, the Daniel C. Jackling Award by Society of Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration and the Des Pretorius Award by the Geological Society of South Africa in 2015, and the Haddon Forrester King Medal by the Australian Academy of Sciences in 2016.
What do you do in your job?
My goal is to try to make geoscience exciting for people.
​I work with a wide variety of people in a variety of ways and also work from the field to the lab and then into business and government - so a very broad range of experiences.
Geoscience provides a wealth of opportunities in many fields and many jobs.
What was your favourite job?
Associate Director of the USGS (US Geological Survey), where I carried out direct geoscience research in energy/minerals for the US government. I also provided policy advice concerning geoscience to the US government.
Do you have advice for current secondary school students?
Favourite subject(s) in school:
Journalism
School subject that surprised me to be useful in my career:
Anthropology
Go for it!
Clare Glanville: Senior Geologist, Programme Lead for Geoheritage and Planning
'From the clean earth to cleaning the earth to sharing the earth​'
My journey & career story
After completing a PhD in Quaternary science from UCD I worked at the Geological Survey Ireland before taking a year out to travel. When I returned to Ireland I worked for myself and for private industry in an environmental consultancy covering all aspects of environmental assessment, hydrogeological assessment and waste management. I then spent 18 months travelling and worked in NewZealand and Australia in a number of environmental consultancies. Returning again to Ireland in 2001 I spent the next 18 years working for an environmental consultancy managing a broad range of environmental projects including and focusing in later years on brownfield site assessment and remediation. Here I also learned project management, people management, financial management and business development skills. In 2019 I moved to my current job in Geological Survey Ireland.
What do you do in your job?
I support geoheritage outreach projects in the community and UNESCO Global Geoparks on the island of Ireland. I provide geological data to the planning process.
​
​In my early career I worked in the field, now I work in the office, but I travel all around the world. I am lucky that my job involves working with people in my own office and with the general public. My favourite part of my job is working with other people and travelling. My least favourite part is administration and paperwork. The most useful thing I learned in school was to be organised and pay attention to detail. Geography, chemistry and maths are the subjects I find most relevant to the work I do now. I always imagined a career outdoors, and geoscience was a good fit. I also studied archaeology in college, which gave me an appreciation for documenting the past. I've been a geoscientist all my life and I have been in my current job since 2019 and am loving every second of it.
Favourite subject(s) in school:
Geography
School subject that surprised me to be useful in my career:
History & Chemistry
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Everything we use and interact with on a daily basis comes from the earth's resources, and the plants you encounter grow from the nutrients in our soils, subsoil and waters. Understanding the earth around us helps us understand the earth story and our geoheritage are the elements of that story that are worth protecting for future generations. Minerals are used in phones and modern technologies including renewable energies. Rock and stone is used as construction materials. Soils support our food supply and our biodiversity. The pavements and buildings use stone with fossils and depositional structures that tell the story of life on earth before humans and mostly we walk straight past it.
Do you have advice for current secondary school students?
Don't be afraid of opportunities and open every door.
"During my PhD I travelled to Iceland to study the ice sheets, and experienced glacier travel by skidoo and by boat at glacial margins. As a contaminated land specialist I helped many householders have their homes remediated after spills or leaks of home heating oil. One memorable couple had just recently married and returning from their honeymoon they found their dream home contaminated by home heating oil and uninhabitable. A well-meaning relative had turned on the heating so that they would have a warm home but the boiler had not been connected properly. The best part of this job was to see them able to move back into their dream home once the contamination was removed and soils, walls and floors cleaned and replaced where needed; they were so happy and grateful."
John Barry: Economic Geological Consultant
'Mine Finder​'
My journey & career story
I completed secondary school in Dublin and began my working life at Bank of Ireland. After this, I decided to return to education and went on to study geology, completing a Bachelor of Science degree at the State University of New York, followed by a Master of Science degree in geology at Penn State University. I now work as an Economic Geological Consultant, using my geology background to support mineral and resource-related projects.
What do you do in your job?
My job involves consulting on mineral deposits and advising on how they can be explored effectively. I travel around the world to visit mineral deposits and the rocks that contain them—after all, you have to go to the mountain, as the mountain can’t come to you in a classroom or office.
I work with many different people across the globe and have worked in over 70 countries. One of the best parts of my job is the travel, experiencing different cultures and foods, and spending time outdoors in nature. The least enjoyable part is completing paperwork and speaking with investors.
My work helps discover important metals such as zinc and copper, which are essential for everyday items like electric grids, data centres (the “cloud”), household appliances, cars, and kitchen utensils.
"I discovered three major gold mines in Africa"
What was your favourite job so far?
Gold exploration in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Do you have advice for current secondary school students?
If you love travel and nature and the excitement of discovery then it is the job for you.
Favourite subject(s) in school:
English & Geography
School subject that surprised me to be useful in my career:
Economics
Julie Auerbach: PhD Researcher
'Follow your interest, and make it your passion​'
My journey & career story
After completing a degree in Earth Science in Ireland and a Master’s degree in Geology and Geophysics in Malta, I entered the Maltese public service. I worked in a range of roles, first as a junior and then as a senior scientific officer, before moving into a position as a research policy analyst. This role involved understanding how geoscience works in practice and helping to develop and implement related public policy.
During this time, I established working collaborations with colleagues in other European countries and became Malta’s first national delegate to EuroGeoSurveys. This opened the door for Malta’s participation and funding in the EMODnet Geology programme. Alongside this work, I also guest lectured at the University of Malta.
Later, I was offered a contract with UNEP–MAP, which involved moving to Greece, followed by another project management role with EMODnet in Belgium. Since then, I have become self-employed, working as a project manager based in Malta. I am now completing a PhD, continuing to build on my experience in geoscience and policy.
What do you do in your job?
A typical workday for me involves a mix of project management, research, and collaboration with people across different countries. I spend time reviewing scientific information, coordinating projects linked to geoscience and environmental policy, and communicating with international partners and organisations. Some days are desk-based and focus on writing reports, analysing data, or planning future projects, while other days involve online meetings with colleagues across Europe. When projects require it, my work can also include travel for meetings, workshops, or conferences. Alongside this, I balance my professional work with PhD research, which involves reading scientific papers, developing research ideas, and writing. No two weeks are exactly the same, which keeps the work interesting and varied.
Favourite subject(s) in school:
Science & Home Economics
School subject that surprised me to be useful in my career:
Languages
What do you enjoy most about your job?
The project management aspect of my work is my favourite part - I plan what needs to be done, who is doing it, and when it needs to be finished. I also organise tasks, keep track of deadlines, and make sure everyone involved, from scientists, policy experts, and organisations in different countries, are communicating and working towards the same goal.
"Hook head in Wexford is amazing... timeless fossil beds."
Do you have advice for current secondary school students?
Stay cool and carry on - life evolves and develops and you'll find your way.
Tony Gallagher: Engineering Geologist
Mud and waterproofs
My journey & career story
I went to university in Galway and graduated in 2022 with a degree in Earth and Ocean Science from NUIG. After taking a year out I applied for the GSI's graduate Geologist programme and began working with them in 2023. While in the GSI I worked in the minerals department, working on the GSIs quarry database, collecting samples and databasing reports on pyrite/pyrrhotite affected homes. As well as this I worked within different departments performing various field tasks as well as working for a short time on the GSI's drill rig as a drillers assistant. This was my first exposure to the world of geoscience. Any students who are interested in pursuing a career in geoscience I would highly recommend applying for the programme as it gives you great exposure to many different types of work that geologists get up to and helps you build a good network of contacts.
After the programme ended, I began working as a junior exploration geologist for a company called BRG. Here I continued working on the GSIs drill rig as an assistant driller having been contracted out to them. The exploratory borehole in Tullamore was being carried out to assess the geothermal gradient which could then inform stakeholder on the possible installation of a geothermal district heating system. After finishing the borehole, I began working withing BRG's geophysical team in south-west Ireland. While there we performed geophysical surveying intended to explore for gravitational or magnetic anomalies that could be associated with mineral deposits.
I eventually left BRG and found a job at a geotechnical firm called IGSL, where I still work today.
What do you do in your job?
As an engineering geologist, I investigate the ground to see what it is like before construction work begins. This involves going to building sites and carrying out different tests to understand the soil and rock, such as digging trial pits, testing how water moves through the ground, and sometimes supervising drilling. I also test soil and rock samples in the lab and carefully record what I find.
Most of my work is outdoors on site, with some time spent in the office analysing results and writing reports. Overall, it’s about 80% fieldwork and 20% desk work.
What was your favourite job so far?
Favourite subject(s) in school:
Geography
School subject that surprised me to be useful in my career:
Chemistry & Physics
Junior Exploration Geologist
Do you have advice for current secondary school students?
Be aware that many geoscience roles require you to travel a lot. Get your driver's license, it's more valuable than a degree.
Sam Kelley: Lecturer in Geology
'Reading why landscapes are the way they are today​'
My journey & career story
I went to secondary school in Maine in the United States and then moved to Canada to study at Dalhousie University in Nova Scotia. As an undergraduate student, I worked as a research assistant on several projects, mainly in laboratories studying rock samples and ice cores. At the end of my degree, I had a summer job creating geological maps for the Canadian government, which involved living and working in the Arctic for several months.
After my undergraduate degree, I returned to the University of Maine to complete a Master’s degree. I then spent a year working in geological consulting, carrying out environmental restoration and geophysical investigations. This work was very varied and included some of my favourite jobs, such as surveying mountain tops for wind farm developments, as well as working on contaminated industrial sites.
I later completed a PhD at the University at Buffalo, where I studied how the Greenland Ice Sheet has changed in response to climate change. Before moving to Dublin, I worked as a postdoctoral researcher in Waterloo, Canada, focusing on how glacial sediments can be used to help find mineral deposits such as diamonds in northern Canada.
What do you do in your job?
In my current role, I work in both teaching and research, focusing on understanding why the landscape looks the way it does today. I spend about half of my time in classrooms or my office, and the other half outdoors collecting samples or working in the laboratory.
A key part of my work is studying how landscapes have changed in the past due to climate change. Ireland, for example, was covered by ice sheets more than a kilometre thick during the last Ice Age, and these ice sheets shaped much of the landscape we see today. Even modern features, such as the routes of major roads like the M50, are influenced by the glacial sediments beneath them. By understanding how climate affected the landscape in the past, my work helps improve our ability to predict how landscapes may change in the future.
Favourite subject(s) in school:
Maths
School subject that surprised me to be useful in my career:
Really all of them, the career that I have had has required a good basis in everything from English for the papers I write, to chemistry for the work I do in my laboratory, to history for understanding a bit about how people perceive how the world around them has changed.
What was your favourite job so far?
Geologic mapper in the Canadian Arctic
Do you have advice for current secondary school students?
Take a range of courses. A broad background sets you up well to make a decision about what you might want to specialise in later. Don't worry if there's a course you don't like at first or that you find hard. I found chemistry really hard in secondary school and now I run a chemistry laboratory, so give things time.
"I think the most fun part of my career is the remote and wild places I've gotten to work. I've been luck enough to travel across most of the arctic, living in tents and traveling by float plane and helicopter. What I found is that each of these experiences has built upon each other. I learned a lot of geology in school, but the first-hand experience really helped me move forward, especially when trying to mix challenging geoscience with a challenging environment. So, in my first trip to the arctic, I knew the geology, but really didn't know how to apply that knowledge in such a remote environment, but I learned while I was there. That experience got me an opportunity to go again, each time I learned a bit more, and that helped me slowly gain the knowledge I needed to get to the place I am today. "
Rachel Healy: PhD Researcher
'It's ok to change your mind!​'
My journey & career story
Upon getting my leaving certificate I moved to London to do a Chemical Engineering undergrad, however after 1 year of the course I came to the realization that just because I was good at maths and chemistry at school didn't mean I liked it, especially at 3rd level. I attended a career counsellor and decided to drop out of London and do a relatively new course in Trinity, Dublin on Earth Sciences. I did 2 years of the Earth Sciences degree which was a mix of the Geology and Geography degrees they already offered and that's where I found my love of rocks, so I transferred to the full Geology degree and graduated 2 years later top of my class. I had really taken to sedimentary rocks during my Geology degree so decided to pursue that further and got offered a PhD position in Leeds University to study field analogues in South Africa for offshore oil reserves in Norway. I loved this PhD for all the fieldwork I got to do in South Africa and sedimentary rock knowledge I gained. Unfortunately, I got very sick in my 3rd year of that PhD and even with taking a year out to recover was still too unwell to start back. Covid lockdowns literally happened within 2 weeks of me dropping out of that PhD, so I was not only unemployed and sick, but the world was having a meltdown also! However, this came to benefit me with how everything became a work from home scenario. I found a random job listing online for a research assistantship regarding Irish fossils and after a bit of reading and winging it managed to secure the job. I got on really well with the supervisor of the project and when the contract ended 6 months later and I asked for a job reference I got offered another project to work on with them. This continued over about 2 years until I fell in love with one of the short-term projects I was investigating. I approached the supervisor with all the ideas I had to make the project better and that I wanted to take it to PhD level of study. Thankfully the supervisor agreed and helped me write applications for funding a PhD which we achieved. I now sit here as a 4th year PhD student, with a very successful project in palaeontology, loving what I study and looking forward to what comes next.
I've written all this so you can see an example of a career path not being direct nor what you plan for. It was a bumpy road to get where I am and while I wouldn't advise it, do realise that it is ok to change your mind on career paths and leave them if you are not happy with it.
What do you do in your job?
I am currently a fourth-year PhD student studying the ecological history of Galway Bay to understand how it might respond to human-driven climate change in the future. My research focuses on fossil marine communities in the bay that have already experienced climate changes similar to those happening today. By studying how these ecosystems reacted in the past, I can make better predictions about how Galway Bay may change in the future.
Galway Bay and the surrounding areas support a large fishing and shellfish industry. While my research is mainly focused on environmental protection, it is also important because this industry provides jobs and income for many people in Ireland. Even if not everyone eats fish or shellfish, Ireland exports a large amount of seafood, making this research valuable both environmentally and economically.
"Not quite a rock discovery but while working on fieldwork in remote South Africa myself and my field partner found cave paintings while out logging rocks from the San people (African Neolithic hunter-gatherers) which was very cool to see and report! We were famous for about 2 weeks in the area because of the discovery. "
What was your favourite job so far?
I enjoyed the freedom I had to explore paleontology as a research assistant in UCD just prior to starting my PhD.
Do you have advice for current secondary school students?
Geoscience is a very open and unconstricting science - you can do any type of science and apply it to geoscience. This also goes as far as anyone interested in social sciences and politics. If you like any aspect of science but also like nature and would like to understand the world around you geoscience is something you should consider. Material World by Ed Conway is a great book that demonstrates the diversity of geoscience and also our reliance on it.
Favourite subject(s) in school:
Applied Maths & Art
School subject that surprised me to be useful in my career:
​Chemistry is probably a big one that is unacknowledged in geosciences, and as a paleontologist biology is important to know the basics of. You don't need to have done geography to do a geoscience degree.
Peter Glanville: Technical Director at SLR Consulting (Hydrology & Hydrogeology)
'Be interested, have fun and keep learning.​'
My journey & career story
I attended secondary school in Dublin before earning a Bachelor’s degree in Geography from University College Dublin. I have also completed several postgraduate degrees and certifications.
For the past 25 years, I have worked as a Director at SLR Consulting.
What do you do in your job?
I have been a geoscientist for over 30 years and what we do has an impact on every day life from the energy we use, the roads we travel, the electronic equipment we use and the water we drink. The job is field based and office based so a nice mix of both aspects. Geoscience is a peoples business, it may relate to the natural environment but you will work with people, meet people and do business with people; Business is people to people. The best thing about the job is the people you work with and the people you meet. I really like solving problems, and geoscience is about solving problems, sometimes based on limited data, so key is understanding the natural environment.​
​
​All of life is based on clean water and air!
"I really enjoy travelling to unique and different places in Ireland and around the world which I would never ordinarily go to and meeting people there."
Favourite subject(s) in school:
Geography
School subject that surprised me to be useful in my career:
Chemistry and Technical Graphics for problem solving
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Collaborating with people.
Do you have advice for current secondary school students?
Be interested, have fun and keep learning.
Brian Kelleher: Associate Professor in Biogeochemistry
'Mud rocks.'
My journey & career story
I did not begin university straight after school. Instead, I worked in a wide variety of jobs in Ireland and Boston in the USA, including factories, airports, painting, furniture refinishing, a hardware store, handing out leaflets in Harvard Square, car hire, and restaurants. I was 26 when I decided to return to education as a mature student and started an Environmental Science degree at the University of Limerick. I have never looked back.
During my degree, I discovered that I really enjoyed scientific research and began to gain confidence in my abilities. That experience helped me realise what I wanted to do. After graduating, I completed a PhD, followed by postdoctoral research in Ireland, Mississippi, and Toronto. In 2005, I joined Dublin City University (DCU) as a lecturer.
I never expected to become a geoscientist, and the subjects I chose for my Leaving Certificate were not directly linked to this career. My interest actually began with vegetable gardening, which sparked my curiosity about soils and the environment. Being a mature student allowed me to choose a path that genuinely interested me. Having worked in jobs I did not enjoy also gave me strong motivation to succeed. I did not know what I wanted to do when I left school, but there is plenty of time to find something you love.
What do you do in your job?
I am currently a lecturer in environmental chemistry and a researcher studying topics such as marine carbon cycling and soil health. My work focuses on understanding environmental challenges, including how the carbon cycle influences climate change and how we can better care for soils and manage waste.
My week includes teaching university students, supervising research projects, carrying out scientific studies, and sometimes working outdoors collecting samples. Fieldwork has always been one of my favourite parts of the job. I also spend time writing research papers and collaborating with scientists from around the world.
What I enjoy most is that my work feels meaningful. Through research and teaching, I have met incredible people and travelled to places I never imagined I would see. I feel very lucky to have found a career that I truly enjoy.
What was your favourite job so far?
A two year research post in Mississippi State University where I studied soil science and also interesting things called "gas hydrates" that exist on the sea-floor.
Do you have advice for current secondary school students?
Follow your heart.
Favourite subject(s) in school:
History & Sports (hurling)
School subject that surprised me to be useful in my career:
Latin
Seán Jordan: Associate Professor of Biogeochemistry and Astrobiology
'A quest to understand life: how it began, how it evolves, and where can it live on Earth and elsewhere in our Solar System​'
My journey & career story
In school, I studied Geography and Biology as my two science subjects. Originally, I wanted to study Genetics at university, but I didn’t get the points I needed. Instead, I entered a general science programme, which allowed me to experience all the core science subjects before choosing a specialism. Looking back, this turned out to be a great opportunity, and I’m glad my path changed.
After my first year, I specialised in Environmental Science. My undergraduate research project focused on Biogeochemistry, where I analysed chemical compounds in marine sediments to learn about ancient microorganisms. After graduating, I travelled for a year before beginning a PhD in Biogeochemistry. Although it was challenging, I loved the experience and realised this was the right career for me.
I then completed postdoctoral research in London and Lisbon, studying the origin of life and the possibility of life on other planets. Over time, I built enough experience and published research to become competitive for a university lecturing position. Today, I lead a research team investigating how life began on Earth, how it evolved, and whether life might exist elsewhere in the universe.
What do you do in your job?
My job involves a mix of research, teaching, and leadership. I teach students about Earth’s history and how the evolution of life and the planet are closely connected. I also lead a team of researchers exploring big scientific questions about the origin of life and life beyond Earth.
A typical week might include teaching classes, supervising students, running experiments in the lab, writing research papers, applying for funding, and meeting collaborators from around the world. I also travel for conferences, fieldwork, and research partnerships.
The job is busy and competitive, and it requires hard work and determination. There are many demands on your time, and university positions can be difficult to secure. However, the rewards are huge. Every day brings new questions and discoveries. I get to work with inspiring people from across the globe and spend my time exploring some of the biggest questions humanity can ask. It can be challenging, but I genuinely love what I do.
Do you have advice for current secondary school students?
Don't worry too much about your choices of leaving cert subjects or even college courses. If you don't do the specific subject or course that you think you need for a career in the geosciences it doesn't mean you can't still follow that path. I didn't do chemistry in leaving cert but now I'm a professor in a chemistry department. I didn't do a degree in Earth sciences but now all of my research and teaching is in the geosciences. As long as your studies provide knowledge and skills relevant for your career of choice, you'll be fine. Just follow your passion!
Favourite subject(s) in school:
Biology
School subject that surprised me to be useful in my career:
​Accounting - I liked this subject in school and now I use it all the time to manage my finances in work
