Day in the life
A Day in the Life of an Earth Sciences Professor
What earth sciences professors actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for an earth sciences professor?
Teach physical geology. From there, the day usually includes teach earth science courses, lead field trips, and conduct research. Field seasons and research cruises can mean weeks of travel.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for an earth sciences professor working full time.
- Teach physical geology.
- Identify rock samples with a lab section.
- Process seismic data.
- Plan a field trip.
- Meet graduate students.
- Write a research proposal.
- Grade lab reports.
Where earth sciences professors work
Faculty work in classrooms, labs, field sites and sometimes on ships.
Hours and schedule
Field seasons and research cruises can mean weeks of travel.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Teach earth science courses
- Lead field trips
- Conduct research
- Analyze field and lab data
- Mentor students
- Write grants
- Publish research
Tools you’ll use every day
- Rock and mineral collections
- GIS
- Modeling software
- Field gear
- Lab instruments
- Learning management systems
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Field adventures
- Research on climate and hazards
- Flexible schedule
- Engaged students
What’s hard
- Few positions
- Field travel demands
- Grant dependence
- Long training
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I love rocks, oceans or weather
- I enjoy field trips
- I like data
- I want to teach and research
- I can travel for fieldwork
- I’m willing to earn a doctorate
Not sure? Take the free Earth Sciences Professor fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Plan for field hazards like cliffs and heat
- Carry first aid
- Follow ship and lab safety
- Protect student privacy