Baiansuluu Terbishalieva, MSc

Where do you work and what is your job?

Currently, I work as geoexploration geologist, in the “Alliance Altyn” Jerooy Gold Mining Company, Kyrgyzstan. I do fieldwork looking for perspective mineralization in the Gold Mining area. If I see a potential rock, then I sample that area properly. I put GPS points in a map, take samples, make a thin or thick section (depending on my research question) and even take several pictures with marking points in the scale. I write down every detail that I noted in my field book e. g. why this area attracts my attention, especially faults zones, quartz veins etc. Then I do mapping and create a 3D model using programs like MapInfo, Global Mapper and Macromine. After I get results (Au (ppm) or other potential elements) of those samples that I sample I try to explain or reject further steps for more detailed research that requires digging a trench or drilling a hole there.

What were your previous professional positions?

After finishing my master’s degree at the University of Potsdam, I got a job in one of the best, biggest and excellent qualified laboratories in Central Asia: at the Stewart Assay and Environmental Laboratories LLC, Kyrgyzstan as Geochemist. I got this position due to working experience in the Thermochronology lab at the University of Potsdam and the GFZ (German Research Centre for Geosciences) as a student helper during my study. I must mention that I have learned there a lot even to create MSF files for ICP-OES and learn operate AAS, ICP-OES, ICP-MS etc. I am really thankful Dr. O. Sadyrov and his professional team.

How did you get your current job?

During my working time in the Stewart Assay and Environmental Laboratories, I got a phone call from my friend and old colleagues from Northern - Kyrgyz geological expedition (where I worked before applying for a master’s degree at the University of Potsdam).

What did you find interesting about the job that you have now?

The Jerooy Gold Mining is located in Talas region (Northern part of Kyrgyzstan) where genesis of gold mineralization related to stockwork zones along the Ichkeletau-Susamyr fault occurs. Every day, I investigate the history of gold mineralization within the fault as investigator by collecting evidence from small cracks of rocks, veins system orientation and materials within the fault.

Also, my parents live nearby, and I have a chance to visit them every 2 weeks and spend time with them.

What are the most important skills one should have for this job?

I guess, important skills are to have very good knowledge in mineral identification, structural geology, mapping skills; also thinking outside the box and really love geology.

What does a typical working week look like for you?

It depends on the season of year. For instance, in the summertime we are trying to do fieldwork as soon as weather is warm enough. The Jerooy Gold Mining is located above 3500 meters of sea level, so we work 2 weeks there and then have 2 weeks off.

In the autumn, I do geological description of open pit in newly ledge and delineation of fault zones.

In the winter, I do academic research work, and this is my favorite part. I do mineralogy, petrology, and geochemistry work. Then me and my colleagues write almost a scientific paper or report about “Where is gold and how much”? 

In the spring, I do drill core documentation and prepare a new plan of work for the coming summer. 

What do you like about your job and what challenges you most?

I like the freedom I have now, and I have colleagues (from different country, background) from whom I can learn new things for myself. The most challenging part is to get answer for my question “How and when gold was formed in this area”?

How much of the knowledge you have learned from your studies do you need in your job?

I guess, the most useful knowledge that I learned at the University of Potsdam is to ask the right questions. Also, I learned how to use data from all new technologies that we used during the study in Potsdam as ICP-OES, SEM, Microprobe etc., that allows you to easily check the quality of the analyses.

Looking back, how do you think about your Geosciences studies at the University of Potsdam?

The first year of study was really hard for me due to a health issue, a different system of education, language etc. But after adaptation to climate, to university and learning of being alone I started to see everything from a different perspective. For example, being alone gives you the option to set the right priorities, find out what works for you and to focus more on your dream research. I should also mention that the Geoscience Institute is international. That helped me to get out of my comfort zone or chain of conservative view and become an "independent researcher".

Do you have any tips for our graduates for a successful career start?

Just relax and do not panic. If you already graduated from the Geoscience Institute of the University of Potsdam, trust me you are smart enough! If you really love geosciences than not choose job and take every opportunity. Just follow your dream and one day, you will be in the right place. If nothing works in Europe, then maybe you should look for a job in Central Asia or other countries?!