Elliot works as an experimental fluid processes Scientist in the Fluid Processes and Fracture Physics research laboratories at the British Geological Survey.

Can you give a brief description of what the company/employer does and how your role fits in?

The BGS is the UK’s premier provider of objective and authoritative geoscientific data, information and knowledge to help society to use its natural resources responsibly, manage environmental change and be resilient to environmental hazards. 

I work in the Fluid Processes and Fracture Physics research laboratories with the Decarbonisation and Resource Management (DRM) department. My role involves researching the transport of gas and fluids in different rocks using laboratory experiments which directly impacts the design of facilities for radioactive waste disposal, geothermal energy, carbon capture & storage (CCS) and shale gas in both the UK and overseas. I have also started a part-time PhD with the University of Liverpool alongside my job. This is funded and based at BGS which allows me to develop as an independent researcher and come up with my own ideas for experiments. 

What does a typical day in your working life look like?

A typical day at work involves conducting experiments in the laboratory and processing and analysing the data from these. I produce reports, papers and other publications as well as presenting my findings at various conferences and meetings. I often work closely with other geological surveys and organisations from around the world and have already had the opportunity to travel to five different countries since starting at BGS in October 2023.

What was your pathway to what you do for your job now?

I have always had a keen interest in the natural world and science, particularly physics, which lead me to study Mathematics, Physics and Geography at A-level. I then went on to study BSc Geophysics with Geology at Durham University. Towards the end of my degree, I applied to lots of careers in Earth Sciences and was fortunate enough to be offered a job at BGS which was a top choice of organisation for me.  

What advice would you give to someone interested in pursuing a career like yours?

Take a look early at what you might want to study at university and consider any prerequisites when deciding what to study at A-level. Also consider what potential employers will be looking for – any extra experiences outside of school and university demonstrate your interest and set you apart from the crowd. I did an internship in a lab in Canada between my 2nd and 3rd year of university which enhanced my interest in experimental science and helped me greatly when applying for jobs.

But overall, pursue your passions – it’s important to love what you do and that will come through when applying to university courses and careers.