Code for Thought [EN] From Volcanos to Open Source - John Stevenson
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Apr 21, 2025 In this episode, John Stevenson, a senior software developer at the British Geological Survey, shares his unique journey from volcanology to engineering. He discusses the emotional challenges of leaving academia and his passion for open-source software in geology. John recounts thrilling field studies in Iceland, revealing fascinating magma properties. He also addresses the importance of open-source solutions for reliable data collection, and tackles security concerns related to software in the scientific community.
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Phases of Career Transition
- John Stevenson experienced all five stages of grief transitioning from academia to research software engineering.
- Writing a blog post helped him process and accept his new career path after several years.
From Volcanology to Software Dev
- John used Python and GIS for volcanic ash cloud modelling and data processing during his research.
- Attending an Edinburgh Python meetup helped him secure his first software development job post-academia.
Living with Icelandic Volcanoes
- For his PhD, John lived in Iceland's highlands to study explosive rhyolite eruptions under thick ice.
- He mapped pumice and ash deposits revealing how eruptions pierced through ancient ice sheets.
