What is it like to be a paleontologist?

Hi Tyler,

Paleontology is the science dealing with the fossils of long-deceased animals and plants that lived up to billions of years ago. It's an interdisciplinary field involving geology, archaeology, chemistry, biology, archaeology and anthropology.

A paleontologist studies the history and process of evolution by examining fossils, the preserved traces of long dead animals and plants.

Paleontologists plan, direct, and conduct fieldwork projects to search for fossils or collect samples. They document the work site and dig up fossils or take core samples from lakes, soil, or ice sheets. They then need to preserve the specimens and prepare them for transport to the institution where they'll be cleaned and studied.

Some work in laboratories, using chemical techniques to analyze fossilized samples and ancient pollen. They share their research by writing journal articles and presenting to colleagues at professional conferences. Most need to write applications for grants to support their research. Many teach and conduct research as faculty members at colleges and universities.

Most paleontologists are faculty members in the geology departments of colleges and universities. Some work in museums. A handful are employed by government geological surveys, where they make geological maps or investigate geological issues. A few help oil companies search for petroleum.

Paleontologists spend most of their time in offices while teaching, writing, or analyzing their finds. However, some conduct research in laboratories. When conducting fieldwork, paleontologists work outdoors, where they do rigorous physical work in all kinds of weather.

Paleontologist jobs deal primarily with the study of animal and plant fossils from various eras of earth's prehistory. While jobs vary significantly, most paleontologists would call the below list of tasks a basic outline of their scope of work:

• Develop data collection methods and systems tailored to a particular era, site or project goal


• Collect information from observations, satellite, GIS/GPS and concussive instruments


• Record and manage records of observations


• Analyze field data, laboratory samples, and other sources of information to uncover patterns about prehistoric life and origins


• Prepare reports and present research findings


• Communicate with project leads, administrators and other staff through regular, scheduled field status reports and presentation of research findings


• Engage in field survey, testing, monitoring, and data recovery


• Advise organizations on the possible impact of policies, programs, and products

While the government projects that employment of geoscientists as a whole will grow quickly, the outlook for paleontologists specifically is more conservative. The Paleontological Research Institution notes that there are fewer jobs in this area in the U.S. than there were a few years ago, but a few good jobs still become available each year.

A Ph.D. is usually necessary for paleontological careers, particularly in academia. Aspiring paleontologists should have extensive knowledge of biology and geology. A double-major with full training in both is the best educational option. Chemistry, physics, calculus, statistics, and computer science are also very important. Undergraduate geology classes typically include mineralogy, stratigraphy, sedimentary petrology, vertebrate and invertebrate paleontology, ecology, evolutionary biology, and genetics.

Field and lab experience are also vital. Paleontologists will need to know professional standards and procedures for surveying work sites and unearthing their finds. Look for volunteer opportunities at nearby museums, or join a mineral or fossil club at your university.

In: http://www.environmentalscience.org/career/paleontologist

Best!