Palaeontologist job description

What exactly is it that a Paleobiologist does?

A paleobiologist is someone who studies the fossilized remnants of extinct forms of life. While paleontologists study the fossilized remnants of extinct animal life, paleobiologists broaden the scope of their research to encompass the study of any biological system. Ancient plant microfossils, such as seeds, spores, and pollen, phytoliths, and individual cells, in cases where they are present, as well as mineralized deposits of entire specimens, may be examined by these individuals using microscopes. The majority of them are out in the field and working on excavations. They are adaptable to any setting and will have the same kinds of talents that archeologists have when it comes to excavation. Patience is one of the most important tools in the construction profession, along with trowels, brushes, tape measures, recording devices (pens, pencils, cameras), and tape measures. They have an understanding of geological principles as well, such as the characteristics of rocks and soil.

It is becoming increasingly common for people who direct or manage excavations to be expected to use remote sensing and surveying equipment and to have the ability to interpret data from non-intrusive technologies like ground penetrating radar. This is especially true for those who direct excavations. The nature of their work is determined by a variety of criteria, such as their credentials, their preferences, and their areas of expertise. One of several possible job paths is excavation. Working in a laboratory or doing research at a desk is another another career path open to trained paleobiologists. One such job is testing samples in order to date them, which may be done using either absolute or relative dating techniques. It's possible that others will build and examine distribution diagrams in order to comprehend the data in its broader context.

The third possible line of work is in the academic field. Those who have the necessary education and experience may decide to work in academic departments in order to inspire future generations of paleobiologists and paleontologists. They will seek for research funds, perform research and excavation for institutions, all while being required to teach in exchange for accessing facilities, and they will get the funding.

Where exactly does a Paleobiologist spend their days?

Because of their adaptable capabilities and wide range of applications, paleobiologists may find employment in a variety of settings, not only inside the departments of universities. Many people are employed in the oil and gas extraction industry, either as consultants or on excavation crews. Their understanding of geology and the deposits found in geology is very useful. Since our fossil fuels are the remains of decomposed biological material, they need to have a foundation in paleobiology in order to effectively explore for new coal, oil, and gas deposits. About 22 percent of the population is working in this sector. In a similar vein, 17 percent will work in engineering services, doing duties that are largely analogous to those described above in advance of commercial, industrial, or residential development but independently of government and private industry. It's possible that they'll put together geological maps and GIS data for building companies.

A little less than one in seven people, or around 15 percent, will be employed by independent technical consulting firms. These commercial companies could be hired by the government or by private developers, but their knowledge base might serve as the foundation for scholarly reporting.

One in every eight people in the workforce is employed by the state in some capacity, such as at educational institutions or museums (but not public schools or universities). This will include things like history clubs, state parks, and other comparable activities that aren't run by the federal government. Around seven percent of recent graduates who possess these degrees are now employed in the academic community.

How Much Does One Typically Make Working as a Paleobiologist?

As of May 2020, the BLS reported that the median compensation for geoscientists, which includes paleobiologists, was $93,580. The BLS also reported that the median salary for paleobiologists was $93,580. The lowest workers made less than $51,890, while the top earners made more than $201,150 between their base income and whatever bonuses they received. The extraction of oil and gas was the industry that offered the highest median compensation, coming in at $125,670. *

Jobs in Paleobiology and Their Detailed Descriptions

The primary responsibility of a paleobiologist is to investigate how biological life has changed throughout geologic time. To be successful in the position, you'll need a very specific set of talents, and the specific duties you'll be expected to do will vary greatly depending on where you work. The position opens up a variety of doors for the candidate, including potential employment in the oil industry, museums, and consulting firms. The following are examples of talents and responsibilities, however this list is not exhaustive:

A degree from an accredited college or university in geology, earth sciences, paleobiology, paleontology, or a discipline of study that is closely related

A working knowledge of how to do field research in a variety of climates and environments, including some that may be rather severe at times.

Capability of generating stratigraphic section samples of the ground using heavy gear and accurately measuring those sections

Capacity for observation and characterization of sedimentary rocks, as well as the ability to determine the link between kinds of rock formations and forms of life.

Have an understanding of the rules, statutes, and regulations that apply, such as those pertaining to collecting specimens for museums or doing field research.

Capability of recording, storing, preserving, and organizing the findings of field research collections

Ability and willingness to examine specimens and pieces of the earth with the use of microscopes in a laboratory setting

fossils and biological specimens should be able to be organized in a way that makes it possible for future scholars or curators to find the specimens.

Research and analysis should be conducted based on well-organized collections of specimens, samples, and observations.

It is possible for a high level paleobiologist to work in a variety of settings, such as a museum, an educational institution, or as an executive consultant, each of which calls for a unique set of skills and responsibilities. The abilities and responsibilities that are necessary for a senior level role may contain some of the capabilities that are needed for an entry-level or junior level Paleobiologist position, and they may additionally include the following:

A doctoral degree in geology, earth sciences, paleobiology, paleontology, or a branch of study closely linked to these subjects is required.

administration of paleobiological research collections housed in museums

coordinating the activities of research participants, employees, and students while projects are active

providing training to employees and volunteers, as well as designing and constructing training programs that are tailored to specific initiatives.

the cataloging of specimens as well as the supervision of access to specimens and their usage from storage sites

Excellent communication skills and depth of knowledge to lecture and educate folks on paleobiology and the many specimens that have been gathered.

Capability to create educational programs and classes that cater to a wide range of target demographics and students

Capability to plan all parts of research projects, including but not limited to project finances, field sites, manpower, equipment necessary, and research techniques that will be used

Prepared to provide specialized assistance and consulting for oil drilling construction projects and ideas.

Prepared to provide academic assistance to students at any level while teaching paleobiology-related topics at a university or college

How Strong Is the Demand for Jobs in the Field of Paleobiology?

Because paleobiology is a specialized field, there is no particular data available about the need for jobs. However, since they have a diverse set of talents that are comparable to those of the majority of other geoscientists, it is safe to say that they belong in the same broad category as geologists, paleontologists, environmental engineers, geographers, and so on. Between the years 2020 and 2030, it is anticipated that there will be a 7% increase in the need for jobs in this sector. It is crucial to simplify production in the search for residual existent pockets of fossil fuel and to apply technologies and procedures to enhance extraction as current fossil fuel pockets continue to dry up. Paleobiologists may reasonably anticipate, based on their understanding of geology, that the bulk of demand will originate from this region.

What Kind of Educational Prerequisites Does One Need to Meet in Order to Become a Paleobiologist?

If they want to get admitted into a degree program that is relevant to their future careers, students in high school should concentrate on the sciences. Students that take biology, chemistry, and geography are often in a strong position to continue their education and get a degree. Similarly, throughout their time at college, students should choose a major that concentrates on this subject and attempts to cover as much of the background research as is feasible. A degree in geography, biology, or geology are all excellent areas of study to pursue. The student's chosen major or minor should be complementary to one another. When combined with the appropriate experience, bachelor's degrees are all that are required for excavation employment. However, the pay is often modest, and there is a lot of competition for these positions.

For the vast majority of positions that do not involve excavation, master's degrees will be required. Your continuous professional success will depend on your ability to gain a better knowledge, effectively utilize technology, and successfully complete projects. A bachelor's degree is not nearly sufficient preparation for a position as sophisticated or important as this one. Students who want to further their careers into lab work, reporting, or desk-based research will need to get a master's degree. A doctorate degree will be required for employment in academic research and teaching, as well as high-level positions in government or industry, especially those involving decision-making or high-level advising work. Since there are no Master's Degrees available for this field of study, students need to continue to customise their responsibilities via geology departments or biology departments.