Speleologist

Everyone has a hiding place where they stash their secret stuff, be it jewelry, cash, or love letters. Sometimes, it’s a wall safe behind a piece of art. Sometimes, it’s a shoebox in the closet. And sometimes, it’s the back of a drawer in the bureau, beneath socks and underwear.

Caves are Mother Nature’s secret hiding place — and it’s the job of a Speleologist to explore them.

A Scientist, a Speleologist is the professional equivalent of a Caver or Spelunker, which are two names given to people who explore caves for fun. Unlike those who visit caves recreationally, however — for thrills, adventure, or curiosity — as a Speleologist your relationship with caves is strictly business, involving serious scientific study.

Because speleology is a cross-disciplinary field that combines several scientific areas of study, your background might be that of a Chemist, Biologist, Geologist, Hydrologist, or Cartographer. As long as your work is in and about caves, however, you qualify as a Speleologist.

Depending on your area of expertise, you might study the geological formation of caves; the mineral deposits within caves, including stalactites and stalagmites; the creation of accurate and detailed cave maps; or the animals, insects, and microorganisms that live inside caves. Regardless, you spend your days traveling to and within cave systems; taking detailed notes, photographs, and samples in order to learn new things about cave environments; and writing scientific reports that allow you to share your findings with others.

Because you turn caves into laboratories — a la the Batcave — in a way you’re like a real-life Batman. All you’re missing is a Batmobile!