While most aquatic scientists work primarily in one area, they draw on information from all fields. For this reason, aquatic scientists often work together in groups. For example, physical and biological oceanographers collaborate to understand the effect of physical processes on organisms, while chemists and biologists work together to understand the ways in which the chemical constituents of water bodies interact with plants, animals, and microorganisms such as bacteria. Today, many aquatic scientists are conducting studies related to global change. As the largest reservoir for carbon dioxide on the planet, oceans play a key role in the global carbon cycle and moderate the buildup of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
Many scientists develop and test models in order to predict future conditions.
Job Opportunities Job opportunities in aquatic science exist for individuals with all levels of education. Employers include State and Federal government offices and laboratories, educational institutions, industries, magazines, book publishers, television, radio, legal firms, and environmental societies. After four years of college you may find employment as laboratory technicians, particularly in government positions. If you have more training, you can do the same sort of work, but will have more freedom and responsibility and may supervise other staff. College and University research and teaching positions generally require a Ph.D. degree in limnology or oceanography.