Taylor Winckle

"I love that I get to do science every day – specifically structural geology and applying geological methods – to advance our understanding of the Earth through ongoing exploration and contributing to research."

Why did you study geological science?

I chose to study geological science because when I was a very young kid, there use to be a rollercoaster at Sea World on the Gold Coast that went through a volcano. It terrified me so much that I only ever wanted to do Geology.

What was the best part of your time at UQ?

I absolutely loved the field trips that were part of my degree – especially the trip to UQ’s Research Station at Heron Island on the Great Barrier Reef.

I also really enjoyed being part of the UQ Geoscience society and volunteering for UQU.

What kind of work do you do as part of your job?

As an early career geologist, I have a passion for applying geological methods to understand the Earth and its processes. My expertise lies in the critical minerals industry, where I have experience in identifying and analysing mineral deposits.

As part of my role I get to go out in the field to conduct geotechnical and geological investigations. Report writing and data analysis is also a significant part of being a geologist.

After working in several different exploration and geologist jobs in the mining industry, I’m currently working as a geologist at Sunwater where I’ve finally found a place where I can use the expertise and skills I gained from my UQ degree to it's fullest.

What is the best part of your job?

I love that I get to do science every day – specifically structural geology and applying geological methods – to advance our understanding of the Earth through ongoing exploration and contributing to research.

In addition to my industry work, I have finished my honours studying the heat production in the earth's lower crust. My plan in the future is to continue pursuing my research interests and progress into a PhD.

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