Aquatic Scientist Career Description
Aquatic scientists study the physical, chemical, biological and ecological aspects of inland and marine water environments.
What am I going to do in this occupation?
There are several career possibilities that can be distinguished, namely:
» Research on various aspects of the water environment.
» Administrators in the public or other sectors related to the various
activities concerned with water, for example water purification, water supply, etc.
» Careers in the training of aquatic scientists.
» Careers in the management of water resources.
Aquatic scientists study the following aspects of the water environment:
» Physical aspects such as temperature, available light, water movement, etc.
» Chemical aspects such as the organic and inorganic composition of water, the importance and role of nutrients, etc.
» Biological aspects such as the types, migration, distribution, behaviour, environmental requirements, etc. of the different types of plants, bacteria, algae and organisms associated with water.
» Interrelated aspects such as the relationship between the organisms and their environment.
» Aspects such as the occurrence, intensity, treatment and control of different types of pollution that results in the death of fish, the colour, smell and taste of pure water that is caused by the excessive growth of certain organisms.
» Aspects relating to the management and potential for multipurpose utilisation of inland and coastal waters such as the reuse of water for certain activities.
» Other aspects such as the cultivation of organisms for the manufacture of chemicals, or for example oystercultivation and the cultivation of shrimps and fish for food purposes.
» Development of plans to ensure the ongoing health of the aquatic ecosystem and fitness of water for use.
Depending on the academic qualifications, an aquatic scientist uses advanced technology and various methods, such as biological monitoring, chemical analysis, computer models and satellite remote sensing.
The aquatic scientist either spends time in a laboratory or in the field. The development of new methods and procedures forms an integral part of most of the aquatic scientist's projects. Work may be demanding and sometimes requires that long periods of time be spent in the field. The management aspects of the job also require skills to work with people and a sound knowledge of water management issues.
Requirements
What kind of personality do I need? Aquatic scientists must be able to work accurately, have perseverance and be able to take initiative. They must be responsible, observant and possess scientific aptitude.
Where can I work?
Aquatic scientists are employed by consulting firms, universities, Departments of nature conservation, various government departments, various water boards, municipalities.
Can I work for myself in this occupation?
There are limited self-employment possibilities due to the fact that the aquatic scientist often requires a lot of expensive equipment. Many aquatic scientists are working as consultants.
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