Seismology is a term derived from the Greek term seismos, which means earthquake and the logy in the term indicates science. Therefore, Seismology is a scientific study of earthquakes and the movement of waves through the earth. The field also includes study of variants like plate tectonics, volcanoes, seaquakes in general and consequential phenomena like tsunami. An earthquake occurs due to the sudden and sometimes violent movement of the surface of earth caused by release of energy in the crust of the earth.

Earthquakes produce different types of seismic waves and these are waves of energy caused due to sudden breaking of rock within the earth or an explosion.

Role of Seismologist and Earthquake Engineers:

As most of us know, earthquake is a natural event that sometimes produces great harm to the community and mankind. Therefore, to protect mankind from this natural disaster, the role of seismologist and earthquake engineers are highly needed. The earthquake engineers are responsible for ensuring that new structures have the proper degree of resistance to earthquake hazards of their environment. Earth quake engineers unite with seismologists in estimating the frequency and size of earthquakes in different parts of the world. Nowadays, with the increasing incidents of earthquake not only India, but also other countries have realized the importance of earthquake engineers and seismologists for effectively protecting their masses from the effects of earthquake and related problems.

How to become a seismologist?

In India, only a few universities offer UG degree in geophysics of which seismology forms a part. Since seismology is a field of applied science, most institutions prefer the students to have solid UG training in more basic disciplines particularly in physics or mathematics. since seismologist will have to deal with computers, a candidate should possess computer knowledge to become a seismologist. To become a seismologist, candidates must have completed their Master of Science in Geophysics and before beginning with industrial career in seismology, they will have to acquire one or two-year advanced specialized study in seismology.

Institutes offering Seismology and Earthquake Engineering course in India:

• Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee

• Indian Institute of Technology, Karagpur

• IIT, Kanpur

• Banaras Hindu University

• Wadia Institute of Hinalayan Geology

• Osmania University

• Andhra University

Government jobs in Seismology and Earthquake engineering:

When it comes to government jobs in this field, candidates can look for job IITs and they can also find job placement in research organization engaged functioning under the government.