Navigating Your Career: Tips for Aspiring Marine Scientists
Whether you're a student or recent graduate, uncover valuable advice and resources for pursuing a career in marine science and contributing to ocean conservation efforts.
Introduction
Are you passionate about the ocean? Do you dream of a career where you can immerse yourself in its mysteries and contribute to its conservation? If so, you're in the right place. In this guide, we'll navigate the exciting yet sometimes daunting path to becoming a marine scientist. Whether you're a wide-eyed student eager to dive into the world of marine biology or a recent graduate seeking direction, we've got you covered. Let's embark on this journey together and chart a course towards a fulfilling career in marine science.
Understanding Your Passion
Before setting sail on your career journey, take some time to reflect on your passion for the ocean. What drives you? Is it the breathtaking diversity of marine life, the thrill of exploration, or the desire to make a positive impact on our planet? Understanding your motivations will guide your career decisions and keep you anchored during challenging times. Hint It gets challenging and there are many different doors to open that revolve around the vast fields of the industry. So really, take a long hard look at what underlines your passions for the big blue. For me personally, it is the love for coral, and the niggling dream of chasing a life of meaning aka giving back. Not to be stuck behind the big corporate wheel chasing endless KPI’s. Not to say that is bad, but this is why I bet on myself, my little dream and passions now finding myself writing this blog residing in Airlie beach, the other side of the world. Okay I am still a recent Marine biology graduate from Bangor University myself, but my passions lead me to this point. If you are going to pursue this, lead with the heart and do not settle.
Education and Skill Development
One of the first ports of call on your journey to becoming a marine scientist is education. Seek out reputable universities or colleges offering marine science programs that align with your interests. Remember, it's not just about hitting the books; practical experience is invaluable. Look for opportunities to intern or volunteer with marine research organisations, aquariums, or conservation groups. These experiences will not only enhance your resume but also deepen your understanding of marine ecosystems. For me Ben, the person behind Seacret, I obtained my degree, figured it was still tricky to get a post graduate job in my desired fields, noticed the giant hole in my CV of “experience” outside of education and so have worked on that. What I have done since my degree which may be useful ideas for you.
1. Completed the ORCA foundation Ocean watcher for marine mammal surveying course (£60 2-3 days to complete)
2. Voluntary work with the Wildlife trust, testing water quality (phosphorus) leading into estuaries of Cheshire leading to the mersey
3. Attended extra lectures from other universities around coral spawning and closed systems, through email lists like the coral list! - This does look like the website was built on windows vista, it is legit do not worry.
4. Undertaking a scuba divemaster traineeship here in Australia and additional instructor courses. I did mine with REEF SAFARI here in Airlie
5. Applied to work on boats to place myself in and around the marine industry.
6. Investing in myself with skills such as CPR, O2 provider, first aid. Small boat licence.
7. Kept a list of potential useful contacts, no matter how big or small.
These are just a few ways to help you stand out from everyone else with a degree or burning desire. You can do it too.
Tip, if you are still studying, gain experience and voluntary work simultaneously. Also create your CV and keep it updated as you progress through your course. Trying to remember modules and course details is tricky once you have already graduated.
Networking and Mentorship
It's time to hoist the sails and navigate the seas of networking. Building professional relationships within the marine science community can open doors to exciting opportunities. Attend conferences, workshops, and seminars to connect with fellow enthusiasts and experts in the field. Don't be afraid to reach out to potential mentors who can offer guidance and support as you navigate your career path.
People freak out about “Networking”, the basics of it is to retain useful people and do not forget they exist. Simply get your foot in the door and keep an excel or google sheets document, write their name, what they do, why they are useful to you, grab a contact, email or number. Ideally both. No drama, straightforward and effective. Maybe I can do another blog post on networking entirely, but for now get filling that network sheet in, DURING your education too, if you still are studying. Trust me I wish I did.
Specialisation and Research Focus
As you journey further into your career, you'll encounter a vast ocean of knowledge waiting to be explored. Consider specialising in a particular area of marine science that ignites your curiosity. Whether it's marine biology, oceanography, marine conservation, or marine technology, find your niche and dive deep. Conducting research in your chosen field will not only expand the horizons of human knowledge but also provide opportunities for innovation and discovery.
This I guess is where I find myself as of February 12th 2024 writing this. Seeking qualifications to allow me to gain specialised work, voluntary, paid they are all experiences in and around my passions of the industry. I recently had a reply from an organisation that carries out long term coral reef surveys, noting their state and condition around Australia, yesss it includes the Great barrier reef, my response was overwhelmingly positive, to which I will be responding once I am A, qualified and B, have the means necessary to undergo periods of unpaid work. This is why passions are so vital. If you are going to be the next thing to change the world, you have to be consistent and committed. The ocean deserves it. Okay, okay it may not be me changing the world, but maybe us all together can or someone we inspire. Who knows my point is, it is tricky. But if it was easy we would all be marine scientists and have our own shows swimming with whales right? Leading us perfectly into our next topic.
Staying Afloat in a Competitive Field
In the competitive waters of marine science, perseverance is key. Rejection letters, funding setbacks, and research challenges are all part of the journey. But don't let rough seas discourage you. Stay resilient, adapt to changing tides, and keep your eyes on the horizon. Seek out professional development opportunities, stay current with industry trends, and never stop learning.
Making Waves: Contributing to Ocean Conservation
As a budding marine scientist, you have the power to make waves in the fight to protect our oceans. Whether it's advocating for marine protected areas, conducting research on threatened species, or educating the public about ocean conservation, your contributions matter. Embrace your role as a guardian of the sea and use your skills and knowledge to enact positive change.
Conclusion
As our voyage comes to an end, remember that the journey to becoming a marine scientist is not always smooth sailing. There will be storms to weather, challenges to overcome, and uncharted waters to explore. But with passion, perseverance, and a compass guiding your way, you can navigate the currents of uncertainty and chart a course towards a rewarding career in marine science. So hoist the anchor, set your sights on the horizon, and let your love for the ocean propel you towards a brighter future.
If you gained any value from our little blog post here, please could you take a moment to follow us here at Seacret (Instagram) or see our feed below this blog, and check out more on who we are and what we represent.
From one dreaming Marine biologist to another, I sincerely wish you all the best in your adventure.
If you made it this far, you are seriously considering this, great!. I created a completely FREE (again link can be found in the footer of this page) discord for like minded ocean lovers to all network, that's right i said it. NETWORK together and share invaluable information and talk about what we love most. The oceans
Best fishes,
Ben - Seacret founder