Job Description of a Paleontologist

A paleontologist is an expert in the study of fossils. Although mostly associated with dinosaurs, paleontology as a science also studies other fossils, including plants, fungi and invertebrates such as corals and ammonites. Job descriptions, duties and responsibilities of a paleontologist vary depending on the field of work and the setting, but they usually encompass at least a few common characteristics.

Definition

A paleontologist is an expert in the study of evolution, fossils and prehistoric life. As an expert in extinct life species, paleontologists also study the relationship between life forms and their environments, drawing conclusions and formulating theories about ways of life, interactions and effects of evolution and extinction. As part of the historical sciences (which include astronomy and biology), the aim of a paleontologist is to understand the history and evolution of the universe, as well as its origin and identity.

Main Work

Most of the work done by a paleontologist happens indoors. Research institutions, laboratories, museums and university departments employ the vast majority of paleontologists. Part of the work includes dating fossils, which is done through radiometric dating (which measures the decay of a radioactive isotope found in living organisms), DNA research and biostratigraphy (the dating of rock strata).

Divisions

There are several sub-branches within paleontology that encompass different fields, groups and interests. Among those, work commitments vary significantly. For example, paleontologists who specialize in Vertebrate Paleontology are more likely to engage in field work, digs and putting together remains, while those who work mainly with Micropaleontology are more likely to spend their time in laboratories, using microscopes and other mechanical tools to study microscopic fossil organisms. Other areas of paleontology include Paleoecology (the study of ancient ecosystems), Evolutionary Biology and Paleobotany (research of fossil plants). Many paleontologists also work in the petroleum industry.

Teaching

Many paleontologists combine research with teaching, subjects either directly related to the field or in areas such as chemistry, geology, zoology, genetics and biology. Teaching allows many paleontologists to get grants and research money, which can then be used to sponsor field work.

Field Work

As part of their graduate program, paleontologists are required to complete field work, which generally consist of participation in a dig or in the evaluation of prints and fossils and the collection of samples and remains. Field work is also part of many established positions, and may include regular trips to major fossil -rich areas, such as the southern Appalachians and the Rockies. When working in a particular dig, a paleontologist often must sleep and live on-site, covering duties that include digging through layers of sand and rock. Tools used are mostly manual and include knives, chisels, brushes and a pick. Remains found must be cleaned, classified and carefully packed to be shipped to laboratories and museums for further study. Little research and analysis is done at the site itself.