How to become A Palaeontologist

Life itself has changed and evolved over billions of years. Are you curious to find out how and why and explain the intricacies to the rest of humankind? If so, palaeontology may be the right career path for you. A study of evolution using exciting equipment and hand tools is an adventure that might be right up your alley.

• Classicist
• Excavator
• Prehistorian

What do Paleontologists do?

 A Paleontologist would typically need to:

• Study fossil remains of animals and plants to figure out the relationship between extinct plants and animals and their surviving relatives
• Design and develop data collection methods and systems tailored to a particular era, site or project goal; research and create geologic charts and maps
• Engage in field survey to collect and record information about the location of fossils from observations, satellite, GIS/GPS and concussive instruments
• Excavate layers of rock to locate fossils and determine their age, origin and period
• Test, monitor, recover and compare new data with existing data using sophisticated computer programs
• Use field data, lab samples and other reliable sources of information to unearth pertinent details of prehistoric life and its origins
• Prepare reports and share research findings with project leads, administrators and colleagues from other scientific disciplines through regular field status reports
• Counsel organisations on the potential impact of related policies, programs and products

Palaeontologists frequently find themselves working in offices to teach, analyse excavation results and produce reports. Many also work in a laboratory setting while doing research. Fieldwork may include physically strenuous activity outdoors in all sorts of weather conditions and the need to travel to faraway places.

Palaeontologists involved in fieldwork typically work irregular and long hours. Those working in universities or research institutes as faculty members work for around 40 hours a week. 

Finding a new job might seem challenging. Palaeontologists can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting employers directly, using job search platforms, going to job fairs, leveraging social media, and inquiring at staffing agencies. Self-employment in the form of consultation is also possible. 

Palaeontologists are generally employed by: 

• The Corporate Sector
• Colleges & Universities
• Museums
• Research Institutes
• Government Geological Surveys
• Oil, Gas & Mining Companies

Professional associations and organisations, such as The Paleontological Association, are crucial for Paleontologists interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation.

Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.

• Insufficient sources to fund digs and related activities
• Lack of viable opportunities to conduct authentic paleontological research
• Legal and ethical implications of increasingly popular commercial fossil hunting
• Strenuous physical activity involving carrying around heavy equipment and locating fossils
• The need to work outdoors in all kinds of weather conditions
• Travel to work in remote locations may mean being away from home and loved ones for significant periods

Any academic program that a potential Paleontologist takes up typically requires a period of supervised experience, both on the field and in the lab. Novice Paleontologists are expected to know how to survey work sites and unearth finds. Keeping up to standard and following procedures is essential.

You may find it beneficial to volunteer in local museums and join mineral/fossil clubs in your university. Read about the profession and interview/job shadow experts working in palaeontology to prove your commitment to course providers and prospective employers.

Prospective Paleontologists may make do with a bachelor’s degree in geology or earth sciences but are often required to obtain a master’s degree or doctorate in palaeontology. A double-major in biology and geology with extensive training in both fields is highly recommended.

Whatever be your program of choice, ensure you gain adequate knowledge of mineralogy, ecology, sedimentary petrology, vertebrate/invertebrate palaeontology, genetics, stratigraphy and evolutionary biology.

Subjects to take up in high school include chemistry, physics, calculus, statistics and computer science. 

Completing palaeontology certificate programs conducted by reputed organisations may help you stand out in a competitive job market and increase your chances of advancement. 

Such certifications help students develop skills in collecting and preserving fossils while acquiring knowledge about the theories and techniques in palaeontology as a means to understanding history.

Obtaining these certificates may entail classwork, fieldwork and passing an exam. Successful certification programs also protect public welfare by incorporating a Code of Ethics.

Palaeontologists with consistently high levels of performance may be eligible for promotion to leadership or managerial positions. Advancement entails taking on the role of a Lead Paleontologist, Chief Researcher or Project Lead. Experience in the field may help you take charge of various projects, both private and government-funded.

Alternatively, some professionals choose to work as Geological Surveyors of mines or Consultants for the oil and gas industry. Others go into academia and dedicate themselves to a life of teaching and research at a university. 

Candidates with a master’s degree or PhD in Paleontology have the best job prospects

Continuing professional development (CPD) will help an active Paleontologist build personal skills and proficiency through work-based learning, a professional activity, formal education, or self-directed learning. It allows you to upskill continually, regardless of your age, job, or level of knowledge.

Professionals may benefit from on-the-job training regarding the usage of complicated field equipment. Their employers or reputed research institutions typically provide such training.

Advancement in this field is nearly impossible without a PhD or other postgraduate qualifications in academia or palaeontology. 

Palaeontologist vs Archaeologist vs Anthropologist

While Paleontologists are equipped to study all life forms and organisms on earth, archaeologists piece together histories using objects of artefacts left behind by human beings. Anthropologists investigate societies, languages, ancient cultures, and ways of life. 

Find Your Niche

Palaeontologists often zero in and conduct further research on one particular aspect of the field. Those interested in studying microscopic fossils take up micropaleontology. Invertebrate palaeontologists study the fossils of molluscs, worms and other organisms without spines and vertebrate palaeontologists study the fossils of vertebrate animals like fish. 

While palynologists study pollen and spores, paleoecologists use these substances along with fossils to make inferences about ancient ecologies and climates. Taphonomists study how fossils are made, ichnologists look for fossil tracks, footprints, and trains and paleoanthropologists primarily study human and hominid fossils.

Potential Pros & Cons of Freelancing vs Full-Time Employment

Freelancing Paleontologists have more flexible work schedules and locations. They have full ownership of the business and can select their projects and clients. However, they experience inconsistent work and cash flow, which means more responsibility, effort and risk.

On the other hand, a full-time Palaeontologist has company-sponsored health benefits, insurance, and retirement plans. They have job security with a fixed, reliable source of income and guidance from their bosses. Yet, they may experience boredom due to a lack of flexibility, ownership, and variety.

When deciding between freelancing or being a full-time employee, consider the pros and cons to see what works best for you.

Palaeontologists have found fossils on every continent in the world, including Antarctica.

Palaeontologists save us from repeating the grievous errors of our past and help us appreciate the intense ecological change this incredible world has gone through to give us the life we live now. 

To obtain a broad skill set, you must be well-versed in multiple related subjects, such as palaeontology and geology.