Science & Technology

Geology

Geology, geological science or geoscience is the "scientific study of the structure, evolution and dynamics of the Earth and its natural resources" (Connexions Direct). In this region, Leeds is the only university offering undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in geology and related subjects in their School of Earth and Environment.

A detailed overview of a geoscientist can be found here, while more information about the role of a geologist can be found here. Generally, geoscientists will work in energy, extraction, environmental services, water services and engineering with a combination of desk and on-site work. The role of a geoscientist is also central in the growing debate about climate change and its effects.

Geotechnical engineering involves applying the knowledge from engineering geology and related disciplines to civil engineering to inform design and construction. It is critical since all building work takes place on or in the ground. Geotechnical engineering can also be applied to the preservation and enhancement of the environment, in order to minimise the effects of mineral and oil extraction and waste disposal.

A number of consulting and civil engineers in the region have proved to be regular recruiters of geological scientists at the undergraduate and postgraduate level. These include Arup, Steer Davies Gleave and White Young Green. There are also other smaller local firms specialising in different aspects of geoscience based across the Yorkshire region. Other potential employers of geologists in the region include the mining and quarrying industries. Well-known quarrying firms include RMC, Hanson, and Tarmac.

Useful links:

Geoscience / Geology

British Geological Survey (BGS)

Founded in 1835, the British Geological Survey (BGS) provides impartial advice, information and expertise on earth science to the UK government, industry, academia and the public. Their website contains a wealth of information about all things geological.

The Geological Society

Founded in 1807, the Geological Society is the UK national society for geoscience,
providing a wide range of professional and scientific support to its members. As well as access to one of the most important geological libraries in the world, membership of the Society brings access to their monthly publication Geoscientist. The website includes a useful education and careers section with careers profiles.

ECUS

An environmental consultancy with strong links to the university of Sheffield, ECUS advise specifically on geoscience related issues, along with those to do with ecology, environmental management and landscape.

Yorkshire Geological Society

This is a social and interest society. However if your interest is in this area, it may lead to useful networking opportunities.

North East Yorkshire Geology Trust

This is a social and interest society. However if your interest is in this area, it may lead to useful networking opportunities.

Geotechnical Engineering

British Geotechnical Association (BGA)

The British Geotechnical Association (BGA) is the principal association for geotechnical engineers in the United Kingdom.

Yorkshire Geotechnical Group

The Yorkshire Geotechnical Group is the regional group of the BGA (above). It meets monthly in the region (usually alternating between Bradford, Leeds, Sheffield and Wakefield).

Association of Consultant Engineers (ACE)

ACE is the leading business association representing the business interests of the consultancy and engineering industry in the UK.

Engineer Forum

Forum to post and reply to queries about engineering. Has a specific section related to Geotechnical (and Chemical) Engineering.

Geo Forum

The source for Geo information. Includes the Geo Directory and Geo Market guide detailed below.

Geo Directory

Search from this page using the term ‘Yorkshire' to identify contacts at regional companies with an interest in geological related work. This is not an exhaustive list as companies submit their details voluntarily.

Geo Market Guide

Geo Market Guide is the leading global information service of the geo-industry and is operated in partnership with the International Society for Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering (ISSMGE). There is a fee to subscribe but searches can then be done by geographical region or business activity to find relevant companies.

Ends Environmental Consultancy Directory

Searchable directory of environmental consultants. Includes options to specify mining and quarrying and to search by region.