THEY plumb the depths of oceans to reveal to us its mysteries, its life forms, the secrets that lie buried deep within, its treasures and its magic.

Oceanography has been defined as 'the scientific study of all aspects of the oceans, their boundaries and their continents.' As such it includes all fields of science (biology, chemistry, geology, meteorology and physics), mathematics, computer science, engineering, policy and management.

Over the last few decades our understanding of the ocean has undergone a sea change. The advent of new technologies for studying the ocean, particularly satellite sensors have led to the development of new ways to explore the 70% of the earth covered by water. Yet, despite these advances, the fact remains that we perhaps know more about the surface of the moon than we do about the ocean depths!

A career in oceanography is not just challenging but exciting in the true sense of the term. The venturing into the vast and unknown realms and the desire to discover has always fired the imagination of man. Being an interdisciplinary science, oceanography is used by scientists of all kind with the one goal of understanding the sea. Today, "Oceanographer" is a term that is usually understood to include ocean scientists, ocean engineers and ocean technicians .The science has three specialised branches: Chemical, geological and physical oceanography and marine biology.

Chemical oceanography

Chemical oceanographers are interested in the distribution of chemical compounds and the many chemical interactions that occur in the ocean and the seafloor. Their aim is to research and develop technology to enable the recovery of valuable elements from the sea. They also investigate the impact of natural substances (such as natural seafloor petroleum seeps) and man- made material such as waste or pollution on oceanic chemistry.

Geological oceanography

Geological and geophysical oceanographers describe the shape and material of the seafloor. They seek to understand the origin of seafloor sediments and rocks and their patterns in which they exist. This involves the study of the geological and geophysical characteristics of coastal margins for the exploitation of deep sea mineral resources as well as for the selection of suitable locations of marine structures.

Physical oceanography

Physical oceanographers are concerned with the water masses and currents of the ocean, how the water masses are formed, and the natural forces that shape the water's motion as currents. Remote sensing is one of the important areas in this field. This field of work looks at the relationship between the sea, the weather and the climate.

Marine biology

Marine biologists focus on the behavior, biochemistry and physiology, and ecology of marine life. They study the ocean processes that control the productivity and distribution of marine life. Their work also includes researching the impact of the changing environment on the oceanic biological life.

Other categories include marine archaeology, ocean engineering and marine policy.

Work

Though oceanography in general is a research-oriented profession, work in this field varies as per the specialised branches. Most oceanographers work in fields that use science for problem solving in ocean work. The work involves spending long hours at sea-collecting samples, conducting surveys, analysing data using sophisticated equipment and quick problem solving with all its attendant dangers. It's a tough life for the ocean investigators, working in all kinds of inclement weather conditions, at all kinds of places and sometimes round the clock.

A graduate degree in pure sciences with a specialisation in any of the oceanographic subjects is essential for entry into the field. In almost all cases mathematics is required as well. For a doctorate, a Masters degree in any basic science is necessary to commence marine research. The majority of courses in oceanography are of three years duration. While marine archaeology requires a background in archaeology or anthropology; marine policy studies require a background in at least one of the social sciences (such as law, economics, or political science).

As the work is highly specialised professional training is mandatory for a career in this field. There are any number of institutes in the country that provide the necessary training; this is apart from the educational institutes.

Career opportunities are as varied as the field itself. Private and public sector companies with interests in marine industries or products, government organisations like the Geological Survey of India (GSI) and the Meteorological Survey of India (MSI) offer regular employment. Opportunities also exist with research institutes and universities as with oil refineries such as Shell, BPL, and Standard Oil etc.

Soft skills

One ailment you cannot afford to suffer from is seasickness! A sense of adventure, physical stamina, enduring patience, an analytical mind, mechanical skills, and ability to withstand long months of loneliness is what is essentially required of one in this profession.

Though these skills and academic qualifications can provide a solid foundation for an oceanographer, the essential element in the entire process is discovering a passion for the science and find out what motivates and inspires you.

If life at sea is lonely it can also be exhilarating and bring a great sense of achievement.

PADMA RAMESH

padma.hyd@careercommunity.co.in