Geoscience is an interdisciplinary subject requiring knowledge and training across many science subjects, including chemistry, physics, maths, and geography. Dependent upon your specialism within geoscience, you may also use subjects such as biology and atmospheric science. Geoscientists can often be found in the field, in the lab, or in the office, all of which require different skills for the collection and processing of data. 

In addition to these scientific and technical skills, geoscientists gain additional, transferable skills that make them valuable employees and team members, including project or people management, clear communication, and teamwork. In our recent survey of currently advertised geoscience jobs (March 2024 - February 2025), non-scientific skills deemed valuable by employers included: investigation, communication management, report writing, mentorship, planning, innovation, leadership, quality assurance and research. 

Digital skills often included geographical information systems (GIS), coding, computer aided design (CAD), and statistical analysis software. Non-technical skills such as holding a valid driving license, CSCS card, or security clearance are also common requests for geoscientists.  

How to become a good science communicator

These short outreach masterclasses were produced as part of the annual Earth Science Week programme by members of the global geoscience community and include tips for sharing your geoscience passion with the world. 

Jump to section