Q: How hard is it to become a paleontologist?

It is fairly difficult to become a paleontologist. Paleontologists are scientists who study fossils and ancient life forms to understand Earth's history and evolution. The career path to becoming a paleontologist typically involves between 6 to 10 years of education and training.

Question 1

How hard is it to become a paleontologist?

Accepted Answer

It is fairly difficult to become a paleontologist.Paleontologists are scientists who study fossils and ancient life forms to understand Earth's history and evolution. The career path to becoming a paleontologist typically involves between 6 to 10 years of education and training.

Question 2

What are careers in paleontology?

Accepted Answer

Careers in paleontology include research assistants, curators, and paleontologists.

Research Assistant
Paleontology research assistants are typically responsible for collecting samples or data from fieldwork locations. They work outside a typical lab more than they do in a lab. They are also for analyzing samples.
Part of their work also includes keeping their equipment clean, sterile, and in working order to prevent information from being skewed during their research.
Curator
Curators work in locations such as libraries, museums, and similar facilities that are open to the public. They are responsible for obtaining artifacts to display, organize, and maintain.
They have the opportunity to host tours and lectures for visitors. Curators often have extensive knowledge in their given field, in this case, paleontology, and act as consultants for researchers.
Paleontologist
Paleontologists locate and study fossils of ancient life forms. Their studies include human, plant, and zoological life forms found in the sediment of the Earth's crust.
They research and analyze data to determine relationships between extinct and living creatures. It can help determine what changes or events may have led to the present day.

Question 3

What companies hire paleontologists?

Accepted Answer

Companies in higher education, museums, and environmental consulting hire paleontologists. People who want to work in research and education can choose to pursue doctorates in Paleontology and apply to work in universities for both teaching and research reasons. However, museums may also hire paleontologists if the museum has a focus on paleontology or a dedicated paleontology department.

Question 4

What does a paleontologist wear?

Accepted Answer

Paleontologists wear light-colored, usually khaki, breathable clothing with a brimmed hat when out in the field. Many also wear what is known as a Kool Tie - this is a cloth tube filled with cooling gel beads - around their necks to keep them cool in hotter climates.

Question 5

What should I study to become a paleontologist?

Accepted Answer

You should study geology, biology, or paleontology to become a paleontologist.A bachelor's degree in one of these fields is typically required to become a paleontologist. However, a master's or Ph.D. is often necessary to advance in this field and conduct independent research.

Question 6

How many vacation days do paleontologists get?

Accepted Answer

The number of vacation days a paleontologist gets depends on their specific employment terms, but it typically aligns with the standard policy of the institution or company they work for. In many countries, these policies allot to around 20-25 days per year.

Question 7

What do paleontologists do on a daily basis?

Accepted Answer

On a daily basis, paleontologists study fossils and ancient life by examining the physical characteristics, ecological relationships, and evolutionary history of organisms.

Paleontology is a branch of science that focuses on understanding the history of life on Earth through the study of fossilized plants, animals, and microorganisms. Paleontologists often spend their days conducting research in laboratories or out in the field collecting specimens for further study.

Question 8

What degree do you need to be a paleontologist?

Accepted Answer

You need a master's or doctorate degree in paleontology or a related field to be a paleontologist. To be a paleontologist requires an advanced degree (Master's or Doctorate). If you wish to do research and publish in scientific journals, then a Ph.D. is essential.

Question 9

What does a paleontologist study?

Accepted Answer

A paleontologist studies the record of life on earth through fossils. More than 99% of all species that have roamed the earth are now extinct, so paleontologists have plenty to study.

They seek to determine relationships between extinct animals and plants of the era they lived in and any living evolutionary relatives of the animals. Paleontologists attempt to understand these dynamics to give us a clear picture of what the daily lives and habits of different extinct animals were like.

Question 10

What tools does a paleontologist use?

Accepted Answer

A paleontologist uses many tools, including chisels, rock hammers, and brushes. In the field of paleontology, many different kinds of tools are utilized.

Chisels and rock hammers are used to get at fossils embedded in sandstone or mudstone. These are some of the most common tools used by a paleontologist because sandstone and mudstone can often be as hard as asphalt.

Question 11

Where do paleontologists work?

Accepted Answer

Paleontologists work in universities, museums, oil companies, and state and federal government agencies. The vast majority of paleontologists, 44%, work at universities conducting research and teaching.

Frequently asked questions about paleontologists

Questions about becoming a paleontologist