I chose to study geosciences because I have been fascinated since childhood by the organisms of Earth’s history and what they can tell us about the evolution of life on our planet. I now work as the Deputy Director and Geological Curator at a natural history museum. What I value most about my current position is the variety of tasks, the direct interaction with visitors, and the great geological diversity of the region I work in.

My career prospects within the museum field include becoming the head or director of a museum, moving into senior positions at state or national museums or abroad, or—within the current administrative structure—advancing to positions such as head of the professional department, division manager, municipal administrator, or director of state or federal institutions linked to political bodies.

These are three typical tasks in my current field of work:

(1) Management duties and staff supervision;
(2) Curation and research of the museum’s geoscientific collections;
(3) Planning and implementation of exhibition projects;

This is the advice I would give to current and prospective students:

Stay true to your dreams and ideas. There will always be challenging times, but keep going — perseverance pays off. Many thanks for inviting me to contribute to this profile — I truly cherish my time in Erlangen. I learned so much for both life and my academic career, and I always enjoy coming back to visit the Department of Paleontology!

The study of geosciences is very diverse in content and traditionally strongly practice-oriented. Theoretical topics are deepened each semester through field trips at home and abroad, as well as through exercises in small groups. I am now working for Deutsche Bahn at the Munich location (Environmental and Geo Services, Southern Region, DB Engineering & Consulting GmbH). My daily work is very varied, allowing me to continuously develop both personally and professionally. As a project manager, I take on a great deal of responsibility and, in return, have a lot of freedom.

These are three typical tasks in my current field of work:

(1) Preparation of geotechnical reports (e.g., foundation assessments for bridges, platforms, pedestrian underpasses, transportation routes, etc.);

(2) Deputy team leadership;

(3) Geotechnical construction supervision (e.g., track renewal projects, specialist foundation engineering, etc.);

This is the advice I would give to current and prospective students:

Listen to your intuition and follow your true interests. With perseverance and passion, you can achieve your academic and professional goals. Don’t be discouraged by the supposedly poor career or earning prospects that are sometimes mentioned. All of my fellow students found good jobs very quickly!

Why I chose to study geosciences: at the end of my school years, I had a strong interest in the natural sciences, with a focus on chemistry. I was particularly drawn to the Applied Mineralogy program because of its practical orientation. The focus on inorganic building materials has accompanied me throughout my professional life. I am currently the Technical Managing Director of Ardex GmbH in Witten, as well as CTO (Chief Technology Officer) of the ARDEX Group GmbH. What I value most in my position is the breadth of the field, which of course also presents a major challenge. The most exciting aspect is the transformation of our industry regarding sustainability, circularity, and new construction methods — a challenge to be tackled together with a competent and dedicated team. Leading the technical division at a globally leading company in the construction chemicals industry is a responsible role that offers me ample opportunities for growth in the coming years.

These are three typical tasks in my current field of work:

(1) Global responsibility for research, development, and innovation, as well as for sustainability, for the European companies of the Ardex Group;

(2) Global responsibility for production, logistics, and engineering;

(3) Global responsibility for procurement;

This is the advice I would give to current and prospective students:

Lifelong learning is the motto. University studies provide the foundational knowledge, which, however, only accounts for a small fraction of professional work later on. In addition to technical expertise, leadership skills and social competence are THE core responsibilities for academics. Geosciences with a specialization in Applied Mineralogy is a degree program with excellent prospects, especially in the construction chemicals industry. German medium-sized companies are often hidden champions and offer graduates a wide range of opportunities, whether in a specialized career path or as a generalist. The challenges in sustainability or mass production in the construction sector, in particular, provide excellent opportunities to combine professional ambitions with personal commitment and passion.

Why I chose to study geosciences: when deciding on my field of study, I long hesitated between geosciences and materials science. I ultimately chose geosciences because, in my view, they are even more diverse and allow you to focus on many different areas of specialization. I now work as a university professor. What I particularly love about my job is inspiring students to develop a passion for building materials science by showing them how and why materials exhibit certain properties — and how these properties can be influenced.

These are three typical tasks in my current field of work:

(1) Giving lectures;

(2) Research meetings with my PhD students;

(3) Attending many different meetings;

This is the advice I would give to current and prospective students:

Try to get a position as a student assistant as early as possible — it’s the best way to get to know the field!

As a geoscientist, I am employed by a company specializing in ordnance disposal. My daily work involves being called out to construction sites, private properties, or selected routes (for fiber optic installation) to investigate whether the area is free of ordnance. If I clear the area, work can begin safely. However, if there is a suspicion of unexploded ordnance, it is our duty to excavate and examine the suspected points. What fascinates me most about my job is the opportunity to experience history firsthand while taking on such a responsible role. Future prospects could include obtaining the qualification to defuse ammunition. Additionally, ordnance is not only found on land; some missions are also conducted on ships.

These are three typical tasks in my current field of work:

(1) Surface surveys using various measuring instruments, e.g., ground-penetrating radar (electromagnetic waves are sent into the ground up to 5 meters deep. These waves reflect off possible ferromagnetic objects in the soil and send an image of the reflection to the radar monitor. Based on the waves, it can be determined whether there might be ordnance in the ground) or through deep drilling (where a probe is used to check for dangerous materials at depth);

(2) Construction monitoring (e.g., aerial image analysis can reveal particularly vulnerable areas that may be affected by ordnance);

(3) Excavation of suspected points;

This is the advice I would give to current and prospective students:

It’s important to be aware that this job is very interesting but can also be risky at times. You never know what condition the excavated items will be in. There are strict safety regulations. I recommend this job to people who enjoy being outdoors. Every day brings something new, and you interact with a wide variety of people. I have personally conducted surveys in forests, cities, large factories, on massive construction sites, on railway tracks (with special track bodyguards), and even in prisons. A few times, I have also worked with archaeologists, which allowed for some enjoyable exchanges of knowledge.

Why I chose to study geosciences: what excited me most was the opportunity for fieldwork and the fact that geology is visible and tangible all around us. Between my bachelor’s and master’s studies, I completed a year of internships on a tunnel construction site and in an engineering office. After my master’s, I initially worked as a research assistant at the university and at a research institute. Afterwards, I moved into an engineering office. I am currently employed as an engineer and hydrogeologist, as well as a project engineer for working at heights on rock (expert in protective structures) at w&p Felsprojekt and GeoAlpin GmbH. What I love about my job is the perfect balance between office work and fieldwork!

These are three typical tasks in my current field of work:

(1) Structural inspection of protective structures against alpine natural hazards;

(2) Planning and installation of monitoring systems for rock faces at risk of rockfall;

(3) Planning, inspection, and installation of fall protection systems;

This is the advice I would give to current and prospective students:

Broaden your scope! Attend all lectures and events available, and don’t hesitate to also sit in on courses for environmental engineers or civil engineers.

Why I chose to study geosciences: during my school years, I was particularly interested in chemistry and physics, but I didn’t want to spend all my time in a laboratory. Geosciences were the perfect alternative, as they combine various natural sciences with exciting fieldwork. Additionally, I grew up near a large geothermal project and was fascinated by how energy is extracted from the Earth. For me, geosciences were the next logical step. I am currently working as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada. My job allows me a great deal of freedom to work with colleagues and students on exciting questions related to the exploration and study of mineral ore deposits. Since many of these deposits contain critical raw materials essential for the expansion of renewable energy, my work enables me to make an important contribution to the energy transition. As for my future prospects: there are opportunities to continue an academic career or transition into industry. Additionally, positions are available at geological surveys, research laboratories, or various consulting companies.

These are three typical tasks in my current field of work:

(1) Plan fieldwork during the winter and carry it out in the summer;

(2) Analyze the chemical composition of rocks and minerals in the laboratory and evaluate the collected data;

(3) Supervise master’s and PhD students;

This is the advice I would give to current and prospective students:

For geosciences, it is important to have a broad interest in the natural sciences and/or technical subjects. Since geosciences cover almost all areas, most students can find a specialization that suits them — as long as they maintain a healthy curiosity and remain open to new opportunities that arise spontaneously. Because geosciences play an important role all over the world, there are excellent opportunities to spend part of your studies abroad, which is usually a unique experience.

I worked for many years in an engineering office specializing in geotechnics, contaminated sites, and structural investigations, where I was involved in project management and served as an expert assessor. I now work at the construction company KASSECKER in Waldsassen. Here, I oversee the area of geotechnics and soil management in project planning and construction supervision. This job, like my previous one, is very versatile and allows me to acquire and apply a high level of expertise. The results of one’s work are usually immediately tangible. The field is extremely diverse and offers opportunities in government construction offices, engineering firms, larger companies such as construction firms, and federal organizations like Autobahn GmbH or Deutsche Bahn. One can advance to leadership positions within the respective field or take on independent expert roles in geotechnics or under §18 BBodSchG. As construction becomes increasingly complex and the regulation of mineral material flows and soil protection becomes more intricate, these professions are in high demand.

These are three typical tasks in my current field of work:

(1) Preparation of construction sites from the perspective of geotechnics, earthworks, and waste law;

(2) Advising site managers and handling geotechnical and soil protection issues on ongoing construction sites;

(3) Waste officer for mineral waste in accordance with §9 AbfBeauftrV;

This is the advice I would give to current and prospective students:

Stay curious and eager to learn, friends of the sun! By the way, this is why I studied geosciences: walking through the mountains and being able to read their formation and history — like an open book — lets you see the world in a completely different way. There are also excellent opportunities to spend part of your studies abroad, which is usually a unique experience. Make sure to attend all lectures and events available, and don’t hesitate to also sit in on courses for environmental or civil engineers.

Why I chose to study geosciences: Ever since I was a child, I have been fascinated by mountains, rocks, and fossils. The first “peak” I climbed on my own was the Raue Kulm in northern Upper Palatinate when I was three or four years old. Perhaps this Miocene basalt volcano is the reason for my enduring fascination with igneous rocks. I now work as an independent scientist (“Senior Scientist”) in the Marine Mineral Resources group at GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel. After a two-year research stay in Australia, I came to Kiel in 2016 and have since secured a permanent position. What I particularly appreciate about my current role is having comparatively abundant time and opportunities for research.

These are three typical tasks in my current field of work:

(1) Science! Generating, analyzing, and publishing data;

(2) Project management: acquiring and executing externally funded projects, including organizing and conducting research expeditions;

(3) Science communication: through statements, interviews with journalists, social media, or public lectures;

This is the advice I would give to current and prospective students:

Follow your passion, even if the path is sometimes challenging.

I currently work as a project manager at a consulting engineering office specializing in hydrogeology. What I appreciate about my job is that each project presents unique challenges due to varying geology, groundwater conditions, and water chemistry. Piecing together a comprehensive picture from the available data requires creativity and patience. This means I not only work at the desk but also visit construction sites and attend on-site meetings. Future prospects could include moving into a department management role (in larger companies), becoming self-employed, or pursuing professional development to become a government-recognized expert.

These are three typical tasks in my current field of work:

(1) Preparing hydrogeological reports and regulatory applications, including data and literature research and data analysis;

(2) Borehole drilling for well construction: site selection, planning, and supervision;

(3) Coordination with drinking water suppliers, authorities, and companies for well construction;

This is the advice I would give to current and prospective students:

Study what genuinely interests you, and don’t be put off by topics that initially sound boring. There’s a lot to discover if you take the time to explore!

As Group Leader for Materials Technology & Application Engineering in Research and Development at the Max Bögl Group, I am responsible for the entire development process of new materials, testing methods, and production processes in binder, concrete, and component manufacturing — from the initial idea to operational implementation. In addition to leading and developing a team of engineers, scientists, technicians, and materials testers, I occasionally advise our raw material operations and persuade clients of the benefits of our innovative and sustainable materials.

Why I chose to study geosciences: I have always been fascinated by the natural sciences. The construction of a geothermal power plant near my parents’ home particularly drew my attention to deep geothermal energy. I find deep geothermal drilling exciting because it allows the development of a sustainable energy source through an understanding of geology. This combination of scientific curiosity and the opportunity to create environmentally friendly energy inspired me to study geosciences. I currently work as a Production Engineer for Deep Geothermal Energy at Stadtwerke München. What I particularly appreciate about my current job is the variety of tasks. Both on-site at the geothermal facilities and in the office, it is important to skillfully combine technical knowledge with geoscientific expertise to operate efficient and environmentally friendly geothermal plants that positively impact our energy landscape.

These are three typical tasks in my current field of work:

(1) Project management (planning, resources, time and cost, risk, communication, quality) as the project client on-site at geothermal facilities (e.g., during maintenance) or in the office (e.g., tenders), with a focus on underground topics/geology;

(2) Acting as an operational interface to ensure the connection between the operation and planning of SWM deep geothermal plants as well as research and development projects, and to integrate new innovations into the operation of the geothermal facilities;

(3) Preparation of regulatory applications (e.g., main operation plans, special operation plans, etc.), research proposals, reports, etc. for the operation of the geothermal plants;

This is the advice I would give to current and prospective students:

Build a strong network, as the geoscience community is closely connected — stay open to new technological innovations! Glückauf ⚒

Why I chose to study geosciences: I wanted a career that combines the various natural sciences and allows for international travel. I currently work as the Managing Director of a Canadian technology start-up that develops AI and Quantum Machine Learning exploration methods. Additionally, I work freelance as a consulting economic geologist, supporting mining and exploration companies in discovering new deposits. What I particularly value about my current professional situation is the flexibility regarding work hours and location, the interaction with different countries and cultures, and my highly varied daily routine.

These are three typical tasks in my current field of work:

(1) Administration, communication, presentations;

(2) Data analysis and evaluation;

(3) Preparing reports;

This is the advice I would give to current and prospective students:

Build a strong professional network and gain international experience — stay open to new technologies!

Why I chose to study geosciences: The study of geosciences provides an incredibly deep and fascinating insight into why things on our Earth are the way they are and how they have developed over time. Unlike any other field, it offers a broad spectrum of general scientific knowledge that can be deepened into various specialized areas. Some of these fields have strong relevance for industry and open up corresponding career opportunities, such as cement chemistry as a foundation for work in the cement and construction chemicals industries.

I now work as a team leader for the development of construction chemical products with a focus on sustainability. Together with our international team, we develop entirely new building material technologies, which are then applied in these products. Over my 28 years at Henkel, I have held multiple positions: from product developer to team leader and international coordinator, later department head, and eventually leading the entire development division.

What I particularly value about my current role is the great variety and breadth of technical-scientific as well as organizational topics. Diversity, interacting with people from very different backgrounds, enjoying teamwork when projects thrive, and seeing ideas turned into outstanding, increasingly sustainable market products. In our Henkel “family,” we also stick together when things don’t go perfectly.

These are three typical tasks in my current field of work:

(1) Technical and disciplinary leadership of an international team, as well as collaboration with external partners such as universities;

(2) Developing ideas for new, mostly sustainable technologies and the resulting products. Advancing these construction chemical products to market readiness within the team and in cooperation with other departments, such as application engineering, marketing, procurement, and patents;

(3) Developing and continuously refining raw material and production strategies;

This is the advice I would give to current and prospective students:

For geoscientists, industry offers a wide variety of opportunities. What’s important is to follow your interests and strengths. Where and how you start is important, but it doesn’t determine your “life path” — one or two career changes can still help you find the right direction. So it’s better to study efficiently and start your career quickly rather than hesitate for too long! A degree in geosciences provides a broad foundation of knowledge for life. You can easily explain many things to yourself, as well as to future generations such as your own children, grandchildren, and so on.

Why I chose to study geosciences: I have been interested in Earth history since childhood and used to bring home boxes full of rocks. I now work as a Government Councilor at the State Office for Nature, Environment, and Consumer Protection. What I particularly appreciate about my current position is that my work is highly responsible, diverse, and engaging. Through my scientific work, I make an important contribution to climate adaptation at the state level. Looking ahead, as a senior civil servant, I have the opportunity for promotion and potentially to take on leadership responsibilities in the future.

These are three typical tasks in my current field of work:

(1) Coordination of climate impact and adaptation monitoring;

(2) Geodata processing using GIS products and R;

(3) Modeling of climate scenarios for the state government;

This is the advice I would give to current and prospective students:

Look beyond the obvious! There are so many amazing career fields that I didn’t even know about during my studies…

Why I chose to study geosciences: I am especially interested in what holds the world together at its core (to quote Goethe). I enjoy being outdoors in nature and am fascinated by how landscapes form and which forces shape our planet. During my studies, I focused primarily on the specializations of petrology-geodynamics and georesources, but I also attended lectures in paleontology, sedimentology, and hydrogeology with great interest. My main focus, however, was on magmatic processes that lead to ore deposit formation and can be analyzed using geochemical methods.

I currently work as a geoscientist in the field of raw material supply and resource security for Knauf. What I love about my current job is its versatility. I conduct fieldwork for exploration projects, analyze drilling results, and create 3D deposit models that may eventually be used for mining permits. Looking ahead, I could obtain the EurGeol title through relevant professional experience and qualifications, similar to the Competent Person designation.

These are three typical tasks in my current field of work:

(1) Exploration (literature research and evaluation of geological maps; accompanying exploration drilling);

(2) 3D modeling of deposits;

(3) Preparing expert reports;

This is the advice I would give to current and prospective students:

I would study what interests and fascinates me the most. Internships are also very helpful for getting a feel for different professions. The job is very versatile, and geologists can work in many different fields.

Why I chose to study geosciences: Since I was six years old, I have been collecting fossils, and my fascination with prehistoric life has never diminished. Early on, through holiday work at the local natural history museum, I discovered and fell in love with the profession of museum scientist. Long before finishing high school, it was clear to me that I wanted to study paleontology. I chose all the topics for my theses myself, and I was able to complete my diploma thesis under Prof. Erik Flügel in the famous Solnhofen limestone. During my doctoral studies at the University of Bonn, I specialized in vertebrate paleontology. This was followed by a scientific traineeship, several postdocs, and two curatorships.

I now work as the Scientific Director of the Natural History Museum Bamberg (vertebrate paleontologist). What I particularly love about my job is fieldwork! Even as a museum director, I make an effort to go out regularly to discover new finds. I find that this is an essential balance to the more desk-based work. Museum jobs are extremely diverse, and most days turn out differently than planned. As a museum director, you have significant decision-making freedom, which compensates for the bureaucratic side of the job. Sharing knowledge through exhibitions and conveying your own enthusiasm for science to many people in guided tours provides tremendous motivation.

Regarding career prospects, there isn’t much room for upward movement in a museum career at my current position — perhaps the directorship of a larger research or state museum. However, I am very happy with my current work environment and team. I am also working on creating new positions to expand our dedicated museum team so that all areas of biological and geosciences can be adequately covered.

These are three typical tasks in my current field of work:

(1) Dinosaur excavations worldwide and scientific publication of the findings;

(2) Administration and personnel management;

(3) Planning and implementation of exhibition projects;

This is the advice I would give to current and prospective students:

Take every opportunity for fieldwork, excursions, and internships that you can! Fieldwork is never boring, and it’s the best way to really retain what you learn. Back in my time, up to the diploma, 55 excursion days were mandatory — I ended up with more than double that, including multi-week excursions to places like Spain, Italy, and Canada. Do internships abroad, and if possible, complete at least one semester abroad. It broadens your horizons immensely.

Explore all subfields of your study program and follow your interests. Change universities if your preferred specialization is better covered elsewhere. Future job prospects shouldn’t dictate your specialization. Anyone who is truly skilled and dedicated can find a position in any field, though sometimes it takes (a very) long perseverance. By the way, I didn’t get my first permanent job until almost 13 years after my PhD.

About my career path: My first position was at an engineering office for hydrographic surveying. Exciting multi-week assignments on survey vessels in offshore wind farms in the North Sea alternated with data analysis and processing in the office. As a project coordinator at an offshore wind park developer, I then oversaw offshore survey campaigns from the client’s side. I now work as an engineer for hydrographic surveying at a Northern German Waterways and Shipping Office. Together with my team, I manage and coordinate hydrographic surveys for one of Germany’s largest shipping routes. What I particularly appreciate about my current job is the balance between office work and time on the ship, as well as the collaboration with many different areas and departments.

These are three typical tasks in my current field of work:

(1) Coordination of in-house hydrographic surveying operations;

(2) Review of analyses and prepared maps;

(3) Further development and maintenance of surveying equipment and associated software;

This is the advice I would give to current and prospective students:

Trust your instincts and follow your interests. The job opportunities and career paths are very diverse, and thanks to the extensive natural science foundation provided by a geosciences degree, it’s usually not difficult to find an exciting position after university. My decision to study geosciences was fairly spontaneous, and I have never regretted it.