Geophysicist and geologist are the earth scientists who study about the properties and behavior of the planet, earth. These two professions have their own importance in utilizing and maintaining all the major resources found on the earth. Also, these scientists lead the crucial research programs which explore better solutions to fight against various environmental hazards. Even so, the nature of these two occupations is slightly different.

Geophysicists mainly concern about the physical properties of earth like its magnetic and gravitational fields, internal composition and atmosphere. Geologists study about the materials that are found on earth and its evolution apart from the internal structure.

Geophysicist and its opportunities

Geophysicists can specialize in exploration geophysics and work in various oil and gas drilling companies to locate petroleum and other minerals. Those who are specialized in engineering geophysics can pursue their career as engineering geophysicists who monitor underground water storages. National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI) is a major geoscientific organization in India which offers lucrative career opportunities for the geophysicists. Oil and Natural Gas Agency Limited is another organization which recruit geophysicists for the purpose of locating petroleum.  Job titles specified for geophysicists in various fields are given below.

• Environmental Geophysicist
• Cryosphere Geophysicist
• Remote Sensing Scientist
• Borehole Geophysicist

Geologist and its opportunities

A plethora of career opportunities are available for the geologists in mining companies, engineering firms, environmental consulting agencies and research institutes. Geological Survey of India (GSI) is the main employer of geologists.  Candidates need to qualify the concerned test conducted by Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to get into Geological Survey of India (GSI). Bharat Petro Resources Limited, Mineral Exploration Authority, National Mineral Development Corporation, Reliance Industries Limited, Hindustan Zinc and Essar Oil Limited are the other organizations which hire the service of geologists. Geologists can also work in Defense and Paramilitary services. They can look for any of the job profile given below.

• Exploration Geologist
• Reservoir Geologist
• Production Geologist

Key difference between geophysicist and geologist

The main difference between these occupations is that the geophysicist concentrates on the behavior and internal structure of the earth while geologists study about the materialistic surface of the earth along with the internal structure. As geophysics is considered as a sub discipline of geology, geologists can work in all the employment areas specified for the geophysicists. But geophysicists can’t get into the areas specified for the geologists.