Embarking on a new position as a geomorphologist requires a clear, actionable plan to navigate the complexities of terrain analysis, sediment dynamics, and environmental impact assessments. This 30-60-90 day onboarding plan is crafted to support geomorphologists in establishing a strong foundation, integrating with research teams, and contributing meaningfully to ongoing projects.
With this plan, geomorphologists can:
- Set targeted objectives aligned with fieldwork schedules, lab analysis, and reporting deadlines
- Track progress on mastering GIS tools, remote sensing data interpretation, and sediment sampling techniques
- Document observations, challenges, and insights to inform continuous learning and project refinement
Whether joining an academic research group, environmental consultancy, or government agency, this customizable template equips geomorphologists with the structure needed to excel in their first three months.
Benefits of a 30-60-90 Day Plan for Geomorphologists
Implementing a structured plan tailored to geomorphology accelerates professional integration and enhances project outcomes by:
- Providing a clear roadmap for acquiring specialized skills such as terrain mapping and sediment transport modeling
- Facilitating early engagement with interdisciplinary teams including hydrologists, ecologists, and GIS specialists
- Enabling timely identification of data gaps and methodological improvements in field and lab work
- Supporting the development of effective communication skills for presenting findings to stakeholders and scientific audiences
Core Components of the Geomorphologist 30-60-90 Day Plan
This plan divides the onboarding journey into three focused phases:
- First 30 Days: Orientation to organizational protocols, safety training for fieldwork, familiarization with project objectives, and initial data collection techniques.
- Next 30 Days (31-60): Advanced training in GIS software, participation in field surveys, preliminary data analysis, and collaboration with team members to refine methodologies.
- Final 30 Days (61-90): Leading independent field assessments, synthesizing data into reports, presenting findings to project leads, and identifying opportunities for research publication or applied project improvements.
Throughout each phase, the plan encourages documenting progress, noting challenges, and setting actionable goals to ensure continuous development and alignment with organizational expectations.
By following this structured approach, geomorphologists can confidently transition into their roles, contribute valuable insights to their teams, and lay the groundwork for long-term professional success.








