Bébhinn discusses working as an Environmental Geologist with our Water team. Bébhinn studied Earth and Ocean Science and has a PHD – Investigating sediment source, supply and evolution of the Northwest Carboniferous Basin: A multi-proxy provenance approach from the University of Galway.
What sparked your interest in working as an Environmental Scientist?
I’ve always enjoyed the natural world from an early age and have been curious about how the earth formed, and how Earth’s processes work, and been intrigued by natural hazards ranging from volcanoes to earthquakes and storms. It’s fascinating that the story of our world and ancient life is read through geological strata.
What types of projects are you currently working on?
I work on a range of projects which include environmental impact assessments and geological and hydrogeological assessments of quarry, windfarm or residential development sites. Other projects are centred around environmental monitoring of Ireland’s aquifers, heritage mine sites or turloughs as well as environmental monitoring and remediation of contaminated lands (e.g. chemical or legacy landfills, industrial complexes).
Can you describe your typical day?
My days are spent doing quite variable tasks. Depending on the project, I would go to a site for environmental monitoring which can include a site walkover survey, groundwater, surface water or soil sampling, recording water levels, field parameters and other relevant geological/hydrogeologic features. I would then send any samples to the laboratory and file all field data accordingly for subsequent report writing.
What specific tools or equipment do you use onsite?
The most common tools I use onsite are groundwater pumps, a water quality meter (YSI) for recording field parameters and a dip meter. I also do quite a bit of borehole drilling where I supervise a drill rig for exploratory holes or groundwater well construction.
What are some of the most interesting projects you’ve worked on?
The environmental and geoheritage monitoring of historic mine sites (Avoca and Silvermines) has been really exciting. Mapping old mine shafts and recreating models of the entire underground mine is interesting. Investigating the suitability and issues of quarry developments in complex hydrogeological karst environments has also been very rewarding.
What do you enjoy most about your role at MKO?
I really enjoy the diversity of the projects and sites I work on and the team I work with. No two days are the same and I am always learning new skills and developing with every new project. I also like that a lot of my time is spent on fieldwork working outdoors.
What advice do you have for someone aspiring to pursue a career as a Geologist with MKO?
I would say go out there and talk to people, be proactive attend conferences and present a poster or presentation, reach out to people, volunteer or ask for work experience. Becoming a member of a professional organisation such as IGI, IAEG or IAH is also useful for networking and learning. Keep developing your skills and gain as much experience as possible.
What are the most important skills required for your role?
While many skills are important, I think a good attitude, genuine interest and passion for geology and hydrogeology are among the best qualities to have. Good reporting, data analysis, interpretation, communication, GIS, and organisational skills are also important.
What is the most exciting thing about the future of Geology?
I think Geology is important for the future, there is always more to learn and space for development. Our advances in renewable energy, addressing and helping solve environmental issues, resource management, especially water, disaster risk reduction and planetary geology are all very exciting, and together with the technological advances provide an exciting space for the future of geology.
