Category Archives: Geographer

Geographer

Phytoliths: What They Are and What They Tell Us

Phytoliths: What They Are and What They Tell Us
Phytoliths are microscopic silica structures that form inside plant cells and survive long after decomposition, providing evidence of ancient plant life and environments. These "plant stones" help archaeologists and environmental scientists reconstruct past ecosystems, understand early agriculture, and trace human impacts on landscapes dating back thousands of years. Most research roles require a Master's degree…
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With Palynology We Can See the Tiniest Details

With Palynology We Can See the Tiniest Details
Palynology – the study of micro organic material such as spores, pollen, dinoflagellates and microfossils (1) - is a method employed by a range of disciplines all concerned with the environment. It is not an undergraduate degree subject due to its limited scope, and though there are some Master’s programmes in most countries, those wishing…
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Cartography Careers: Map-Making Meets Technology

Cartography Careers: Map-Making Meets Technology
Cartography combines geography, GIS technology, and data visualization to create maps and spatial analysis tools. Most cartographers hold a bachelor's degree in geography, surveying, or GIS, with many pursuing master's specializations. The field offers median salaries of $71,890 annually (May 2023, BLS) with strong opportunities in environmental science, urban planning, and geospatial technology sectors. Employment…
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Geospatial Technology: An Introduction and Overview

Geospatial Technology: An Introduction and Overview
Geospatial technology combines Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and GPS to analyze spatial relationships and environmental patterns. These tools have become essential in environmental science careers, enabling scientists to track climate change, monitor wildlife populations, assess ecosystem health, and plan conservation strategies. Environmental scientists with geospatial skills earn a median salary of $80,060 nationally,…
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Hydroelectric Power 101

Hydroelectric Power 101
Hydroelectric power uses the kinetic energy of moving water to produce electricity. It's the most widely used form of renewable energy, generating 19% of electricity worldwide (1). While large-scale projects have had mixed results in the developing world, when done properly, hydroelectric is a cheap, clean and effective method of producing energy. Hydroelectric Methods Most…
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Is Environmental Science Really a Good Major?

Is Environmental Science Really a Good Major?
Is Environmental Science Really a Good Major? Imagine your family has been asking for years what you will specialize in when you go to college and you have just decided to change from “undeclared” to environmental science”. Will you be met with blank stares, head shakes, or grumbles about “you’ll never do anything good with…
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What We Wish We Had Known before Majoring in Environmental Science

What We Wish We Had Known before Majoring in Environmental Science
Environmental science students consistently identify four critical areas they wish they'd understood before starting their major: the foundational importance of chemistry across all specializations, the competitive nature of introductory science courses, the long-term value of professional networking from day one, and the significant adjustment required for university-level science education. These insights come from hundreds of…
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