PetroStrat is thrilled to welcome two bright students from Plymouth University who joined us as part of our new summer internship programme. As a world-leading geoscience company, we are proud to play our part in inspiring the next generation of geoscientists and nurturing young talent.
We’re excited to showcase the experiences of two bright students who have been part of our team for the past three weeks. This studious pair spent a chunk of their summer break with us and gained practical, hands-on learning of the type of career they can look forward to when they complete their valuable geoscience degrees.
Bridging the gap, nurturing the next generation of geoscientists
Our interns gained hands-on experience with their very own mini project, giving them a taste of our routine workflows by studying on a real section of Jurassic core. Firstly, they learned the fundamentals of core logging, and sampling for thin sections and biostratigraphy. Following the samples on their journey through our laboratory, shadowing our experienced laboratory technicians, they gained insight into how we transform rock to slides. Next, they picked microfossils from the processed sample before moving onto learning about how we log and interpret microfossil assemblages, and how to organise and display biostratigraphic data digitally. Finally, they inspected petrographic slides, had a go on our point counting machines and had guided workshops on reservoir geology data processing and industry-standard software.
Key parts of our geoscience internship programme
• Worked with teams across all our technical departments, (biostratigraphy, reservoir geology, laboratory)
• Focus on hands-on learning, each step of the way
• Mentorship and guidance provided by experienced professionals
• Gained an understanding of data management and digital display of interpreted geoscience data, using industry-standard software (StrataBugs, IC, WellCAD)
Our internship programme was born with one simple goal: to bridge the gap between academia and industry. Following a career fair at Plymouth University last year, we were struck by the enthusiasm and curiosity of the students we met. Many were surprised to learn about the exciting career opportunities available in geoscience, particularly in biostratigraphy.
Traditionally, UK universities offered a strong foundation in biostratigraphy through MSc and funded PhD programmes. However, the closure of the MSc programme in Birmingham has had a profound effect on the number of new biostratigraphers graduating each year. As the years progress, there will be a serious skill shortage in this field.
As a world-leading employer of biostratigraphers, we recognise the importance of nurturing young talent. We want to start playing an active role in fostering a new generation of scientists.
Meet the interns
Connor Beckett
Name: Connor Beckett
University/Institution: University of Plymouth
Course/Degree: BSc Geology
Year of Study: 2nd entering 3rd in September
Connor’s favourite degree topics are:
- Core analysis
- Geoscience communication
At PetroStrat he most enjoyed:
- Exploring the diverse careers paths he can explore as a geoscience graduate
- Petrography
- Learning more about biostratigraphy
We asked Connor about what surprised him the most, something interesting he discovered during his time with us. He said;
“Before this internship, I was clueless about what geology careers existed outside the geotechnical or mining realm. I believed that those were the only options other than academia. However, seeing how PetroStrat cover such a wide variety of geologically related positions I’m fascinated at the idea of pursuing something potentially in reservoir geology consulting. “
Penny Nixon
Name: Penny Nixon
University/Institution: University of Plymouth
Course/Degree: BSc Environmental Geoscience
Year of Study: 2nd entering 3rd in September
Penny’s favourite degree topics are:
- Micropalaeontology
- Climate change
At PetroStrat she most enjoyed:
- Learning more, and growing her interest in the micropalaeontology
- The welcoming and encouraging team!
We asked Penny about the skills and knowledge she feels she has gained during this internship. She had this to say;
“On this internship, I have learnt a range of new skills, which are going to be hugely beneficial to me in the near and far future. I have learnt how to prepare samples in the lab, how to sieve, pick and identify micro samples, how to use a range of industry level software, and how to pick count and identify minerals in thin sections using the Petrography scope. These are skills I have not yet learnt at university, but these will be hugely important for my future.”
“I also had a session in which I learnt some important CV tips and tricks from a HR point of view, as well as important things I need to remember for my dissertation, future University work and career presentations.”
Looking for a career in Geoscience?
PetroStrat is an integrated geoscience company, offering a comprehensive suite of services to support the energy industry. Our geological services revolve around three fundamental disciplines: biostratigraphy (wellsite and post-well), sedimentology, and sample processing & analysis (conducted in our cutting-edge onsite laboratories). These services can be offered singularly or integrated to form bespoke solutions that provide unparalleled geological insights into the subsurface.
We’re committed to playing an active role in the energy transition and are already playing a meaningful role in shaping a sustainable future. Our services are evolving to include bespoke solutions for CCUS, hydrogen storage, and wind energy, as well as in the exploration of new energy resources like helium.
Take your first step in a rewarding and life-long career in geoscience.
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