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what do the different types of oceanographers do?

i plan on becoming a naval oceanographer but i have yet to figure what kind, just want some insight into what would be best for me. thanks! #oceanography #united-states-navy #ocean #biological-oceanography #chemical-oceanography #geographical-oceanography

oceanography united-states-navy ocean biological-oceanography chemical-oceanography geographical-oceanography
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Kenneth’s Answer

Kassidie,


I have been a Naval Oceanographer for the last 4 years. Naval Oceanographers work in many different fields, not just oceanography. You see, we are the Navy's environmental experts: We provide climate analysis, weather and ocean forecasts, conduct oceanographic and hydrographic (beach) surveys, and work with other agencies for earthquake and tsunami warnings when these events affect Naval bases. Our job is to keep our Sailors, ships, and stations safe from the destructive forces of nature; we also advise operational commanders on how to use the environment to our advantage against the enemy.


To become a Naval Oceanographer, you have to have a strong math and science background. In high school, do well in all your science courses, especially physics and chemistry, and also in math. If you're able to take calculus in high school, do it! When you get to college, I recommend studying either oceanography or meteorology; if you can find a degree track that includes courses in both, I strongly encourage you to take that track!


If you have any other questions, I will be more than happy to answer them!
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Brook’s Answer

I am a Chemical Oceanographer by training, but I would now be considered more of a biological oceanographer. As a Research Professor at a major University, we design experiments and lead expeditions to track how the chemistry of the ocean influences microbial life (not the larger macro-fauna). We look at large scale processes and how big algae blooms in the ocean change the chemistry of large areas of water and how that chemistry controls those blooms.
Those are just a few examples....
You can explore hydrothermal vent ecosystems, sedimentary bacteria, bacteria living on microscopic phytoplankton, chemical interactions between different microbes, how large climate events control the microbiome structure and function and how that changes the overall chemistry of the ecosystem and the macrofauna....the list goes on and on.
Find a lab that describes what they do and the description excites you!!
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