Tim Rawling

Research Fellow
School of Earth Sciences, University of Melbourne

Bachelor of Science
Master of Science
PhD in geosciences

“The most challenging and rewarding experience during my time at Monash was doing field work in some remote and exotic places."

On finishing my undergraduate degree at Monash University (double major in Geology) I pursued an academic/research career. Initially I undertook a Masters degree in Geology studying fluid flow and fluid rock interaction in mid-crustal shear zones. This involved a mixture of field based research in the Mt Isa region of Queensland and lab based analytical work in the Oxygen Isotope facility at Monash. I then did a PhD researching the tectonic evolution of the Western Pacific. This involved extensive fieldwork in New Caledonia and a year was spent working in the Noble Gas Mass Spectrometry facility at the University of Arizona.

On completion of my PhD I have worked both as a university based researcher and in the private sector as a Senior Analyst Programmer for a large software development company. I am currently working as a Research Fellow at the University of Melbourne developing better ways to utilise existing and emerging technology to improve the mineral exploration process.

I enjoy this job very much as it allows me to combine my passion for the earth sciences with the ‘technophile/geek’ in me that likes programming computers and keeping up with the latest technological developments.

The most challenging and rewarding experience during my time at Monash was doing field work in some remote and exotic places. I was also fortunate to work with some very inspiring people. My courses provided me with the skills to successfully pursue careers both in academia and the private sector.