The earth scientist who studied earthquakes in North Borneo

Charlotte Caplan, Part III earth sciences student at Newnham College, reveals all regarding her recent fieldwork in North Borneo, and the career options she’s weighing up

I initially came to Cambridge to specialise in chemistry…
…but during my first year of the Natural Sciences Tripos, I discovered a love for earth sciences. The main reason I chose to specialise in earth sciences rather than chemistry was the fieldwork and outdoor learning that earth sciences involved. It is therefore unsurprising that I chose a Part III project that involved an exciting fieldwork component!

Over summer, I spent two weeks in North Borneo undertaking fieldwork.
I selected a project that involves studying the earthquakes in and around North Borneo in order to improve our understanding of the tectonic plate motions in the region. The aim of the fieldwork was to service seismometers (specialist equipment) that had been deployed in the region in March and download the data that had been recorded. Most seismometers were reached by driving through the region along roads of various quality, ranging from new dual carriage ways to what were essentially mud baths.

After fearing for my life, and eventually being found by the search party, I fully appreciated how dangerous such a beautiful environment the jungle is

Finding one seismometer in the Maliau Basin involved hiking approximately 10km each way through the rainforest.
This was the most challenging day of the trip. Not only did I have to deal with leeches and a gruellingly steep hike that required ladders at certain points, I found myself lost and alone on the return trek. After fearing for my life, and eventually being found by the search party, I fully appreciated how dangerous such a beautiful environment the jungle is.

A few of the seismometers had been deployed on nearby tropical islands.
The most picturesque site that I serviced was on the island of Mantanani. This location was idyllic, and even the rough journey across the sea on a boat with a broken engine did not dampen my excitement about visiting the site.

The fieldwork was an eye-opening trip.
I had never been to South-East Asia before, nor undertaken seismology fieldwork. Not only did I gain an insight into Malaysian culture, I learnt much about using seismometers and specialist computer software. Furthermore, spending two weeks in a research team of PhD students, postdocs and fellows, I was introduced to life as a seismologist and academic, thus the trip helped me to consider my career options.

I am strongly considering a career that involves working with young people to make a positive difference to the world around us

I am currently undecided as to my plans once I have graduated.
This trip reiterated the fact that I wish to take some time after graduation to travel and visit new places. Regarding my career, I intend on leaving academia for now, but I may return in the future. I am strongly considering a career that involves working with young people to make a positive difference to the world around us. Currently, I am exploring options that include teaching in schools, both in the UK and abroad, or working for a charitable youth movement in London.

Not sure what you want to do with your career? Explore our ‘I’m looking for ideas’ pages at www.careers.cam.ac.uk to get started

Studying earth sciences has taught me numerous lessons that will be valuable in any profession.
These include mathematical, observational and computer skills, as well as working in a team and developing effective communication with others. This fieldwork in Borneo, and the earth sciences degree in general, have encouraged my love for being outside and have offered me a wide range of possible career paths.

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