Palaeontologist
As opposed to Paleoanthropologists, who study ancient civilizations, palaeontologists discover and study human, animal and plant fossils from the past.
After gathering fossils and ancient remains, they make connections between the creature’s environment and their anatomy; trying to find evidence of evolution and reasons for extinction.
Although it might seem that palaeontologists spend most of their time outdoors, the contrary is true. The majority of a palaeontologist’s time is spent indoors; whether it is taking notes, analyzing fossils, teaching at educational facilities or working in laboratories.
Although the majority of the time they are indoors, they do work in the field, collecting samples, participating in digs and various other activities with a team. Palaeontologists may also have to fly and visit locations where new fossils have been discovered.
To become a palaeontologist, there are various educational steps.
As of 2009, the average annual salary of a palaeontologist was about $81,000. From 2008 to 2018, the palaeontology job sector is expected to increase by 19%.
Source - MLA Format
Arfaz, Muhammad. "Paleontology Careers." PRIweb.org: Redirecting.... N.p., n.d. Web. 19 June 2012. <http://www.priweb.org/ed/lol/careers>
After gathering fossils and ancient remains, they make connections between the creature’s environment and their anatomy; trying to find evidence of evolution and reasons for extinction.
Although it might seem that palaeontologists spend most of their time outdoors, the contrary is true. The majority of a palaeontologist’s time is spent indoors; whether it is taking notes, analyzing fossils, teaching at educational facilities or working in laboratories.
Although the majority of the time they are indoors, they do work in the field, collecting samples, participating in digs and various other activities with a team. Palaeontologists may also have to fly and visit locations where new fossils have been discovered.
To become a palaeontologist, there are various educational steps.
- First, high school must be completed. Biology, mathematics and language courses are highly recommended in high school.
- After high school, apply to universities, preferably some that give degrees in any earth sciences. Take courses such as mathematics, geography, computer sciences, geology and all three sciences. Also, courses that require writing are recommended because a lot of note taking is required as a paleontologist
- If you plan to start a research program, write papers on palaeontology, become a museum curator or teach at a university, either an M.D. or a Ph.D. is required. Try to locate established palaeontologists and assist them with their work – the experience could go a long way.
As of 2009, the average annual salary of a palaeontologist was about $81,000. From 2008 to 2018, the palaeontology job sector is expected to increase by 19%.
Source - MLA Format
Arfaz, Muhammad. "Paleontology Careers." PRIweb.org: Redirecting.... N.p., n.d. Web. 19 June 2012. <http://www.priweb.org/ed/lol/careers>