Palaeontologist
Palaeontologists study the history of life on Earth through fossils.
- Starter salary£25,000 a year
- Experienced£45,000 a year
- Typical hours37 to 42 a week
What you'll do
As a palaeontologist, you could:
- collect samples and data from field trips and museum collections
- examine specimens in the lab, using technology like CT scanning
- analyse data and catalogue fossil specimens
- carry out research and publish findings
- plan and deliver lectures to students
- give talks and manage displays and exhibitions
- provide expert advice for broadcasters and publishers
Working environment
You could work in a laboratory, in a museum, at a university or visit sites.
Your working environment may be physically demanding and you may spend nights away from home.
Skills and knowledge you'll need
You'll need:
- science skills
- maths knowledge
- knowledge of geography
- analytical thinking skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- excellent verbal communication skills
- excellent written communication skills
- persistence and determination
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
How to become a palaeontologist
You can get into this job through a university course.
University
You'll usually need to complete a first degree followed by further study for postgraduate qualifications at master's or PhD level.
Subjects include:
- botany
- Earth sciences
- geology
- palaeontology
- zoology
- biological science
Employers like universities or research institutions will expect you to have completed, or be working towards, a PhD in your specialist area of interest in palaeontology.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
- 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including a science, for a degree
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
Volunteering
Volunteering at your local museum can help you learn more about palaeontology, especially where the museum has a fossil collection.
You can also get involved in activities organised by geology and fossil hunting societies, like Rockwatch .
Career path and progression
With experience, you could become a:
- senior researcher, managing a project team
- collections curator at a museum
- lecturer in higher education
You may also find opportunities in geological surveying in mining and minerals exploration, or work as a consultant in media publishing.
Professional and industry bodies
You can join The Palaeontology Association for professional development opportunities and to make contacts in the profession.
Guides for this industry
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