How to Become a Zoo Archaeologist

Zoo archaeologists analyze animal bones and fragments recovered from archaeological sites to see if they can determine the species and cause of death. Studying animal remains is important because it can teach us the dynamics between humans and the natural environment.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Go to college. The first step in becoming a zoo archaeologist is to get a college degree. Take as many science and anthropology courses as you can to get an overview of the zoo archaeology field.

2. Get an advanced degree. After college, attend a graduate school with a strong anthropology and archaeology department. Most zoo archaeologists have advanced degrees in anthropology with an emphasis in faunal analysis. An advanced degree in biology, with an emphasis on archaeological faunal analysis, is also a good background for becoming a zoo archaeologist.

3. Find an internship. Through your school or networking opportunities, try to find an archaeological dig that you can join as an intern. Actually working in the field on a zoo archaeology project is one of the best ways to meet people in the field, gain knowledge and build your reputation as a budding zoo archaeologist.

4. Write and present a paper. Through your education and work you should find a niche or an issue in zoo archaeology that interests you. Write and present a paper on the subject. This will help build your reputation and provide valuable networking opportunities.

5. Freelance. Full-time positions as a zoo archaeologist can be rare. Consider freelancing on several different projects or even teaching on the university level.