Veronica Parker-Hawley
B.S. Geophyscis,
Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences,
Saint Louis University

Geophysicist with
 Geotechnology, Inc. in St. Louis
  

What's your job like? "My job is to use non-invasive geophysical techniques to image the subsurface. I perform and lead field projects as well as process data and write technical reports.  Typical projects include seismic refraction and resistivity surveys to profile bedrock topography, Refraction Microtremor (ReMi) surveys to determine shear wave velocity, electromagnetic surveys to find underground storage tanks (USTs) and voids, and ground penetrating radar surveys to locate utilities, USTs, and voids.   I have also on occasion performed geotechnical logging, crosshole sonic logging, downhole camera projects, collected soil and water samples, and written Phase I Environmental Site Assessments.  

What's an interesting aspect of your job? "One of my most interesting jobs is ... to integrate multiple techniques such as using seismic refraction and resistivity to find karst and bedrock or using ground penetrating radar and electromagnetics to look for utilities or voids. I always find correlating the data to be an interesting task."

Any advice for current undergraduates? "Get out and get as much research and internship experience as possible. Go on as many field trips as possible too.  Don't pass up any opportunities to learn more or get more experience."