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Career Paths in Geoscientific Research

Soil and Water Science, Geoinformatics, Geodesy, Geomorphology, Biogeography, Location Research, Climate Research, Innovation Research

Geoscience is an ancient science, perhaps one of the oldest alongside philosophy and mathematics. And it has always been an “applied” science. How can the vast area of fertile land around the city of Uruk be divided into reasonably equal plots, and how can we remember how the plots were divided after the great flood receded?

Even today, at universities, the havens of fundamental research, it is still possible to write doctoral theses in geography on the transportation network of a small county. Going “outside” is then less of a giant leap and more a small step. Location research is about being able to assess and present all the factors that determine the suitability of a location for a new industrial project, aiding decision-making on exactly which location should be chosen in the end. While career entry in this field is actually possible with just a bachelor’s degree, the advanced methodological knowledge acquired while doing a master’s is always helpful.

In recent years, a significant trend has emerged whereby ecologically-oriented biologists are collaborating with geographers in order to be able to make reliable statements about WHAT grows, crawls, and flies WHERE, and what impact a planned intervention into the biotope is likely to have. This type of research is generally initiated by commissioning architecture, engineering, and planning firms. Since geography has always had to be extremely innovative in order to accomplish its tasks, it is increasingly being taken seriously as a science that can draw conclusions about how and where innovation arises, develops, and encounters obstacles. This type of research is a driving, perhaps forward-looking, research that tends to take place at large associations, at state and federal agencies, or in close proximity to government. Career entry with a master’s degree is not out of the question here, but the expertise gained from a doctorate is very helpful.