Colonial Geological Survey Service

Abstract

AN important part of a comprehensive plan for the economic development of the British Colonies is a thorough investigation of their mineral resources. This involves a considerable expansion of the Colonial geological surveys and the completion of maps on reconnaissance and more detailed scales with the view to discovery of mineral deposits and the determination of their economic significance. Such a programme of investigation offers geologists a wide range of interest—scientific and economic—with the added attraction of pursuing field-work under varied geographical and climatic conditions. There is place, too, for those who wish to specialize in petrology, mineralogy, economic geology, geophysics, etc. Most Colonial geological surveys offer opportunities for research, and men are encouraged to do new work and prepare for research degrees. Wherever possible they are given facilities also to study special subjects related to their work. A considerable number of geologists will be required during the next four years and a slightly lesser number in succeeding years to carry out such a programme. The vacancies in view are announced so far as possible in advance so that men who desire an active life of field-work may be encouraged to pursue geological studies with reasonable prospect of securing an appointment in the Colonial Geological Survey Service. The vacancies anticipated during the next few years are as follows : 1948–52, an average of 25 a year ; 1953–56, an average of 15 a year. The Colonies in which these vacancies will occur include the following : Kenya, Uganda, Tanganyika Territory, Northern Rhodesia, Nyasaland, Bechuanaland, Swaziland, Nigeria, Gold Coast, Sierra Leone, British Guiana, British Honduras, Malaya, North Borneo, Sarawak, and certain other smaller Colonies. The posts offered are, in general, permanent and pensionable in themselves, or such as to lead to permanent and pensionable posts ; temporary service would ordinarily count for pension where there has been no break in service. The qualification required is a good honours degree in geology, preferably supplemented by a research degree, or research experience. Forms of application for appointment to the Colonial Geological Survey Service are obtainable on request from the Director of Recruitment (Colonial Service), Colonial Office, 15 Victoria Street, London, S.W.I.