Introduction to Paleontology: Preparation and Curation

This summer, I am teaching a six week course on the basics of paleontology and geology, to a small class of high school interns. I've recorded narrations for each of these, and am now sharing this course on YouTube for the education and enjoyment of all. This is the third presentation in our series.

For Further Information:
http://www.dmns.org/main/minisites/fossil/vertprep.html
http://preparation.paleo.amnh.org/45/tools-equipment

Category:

Education

Tags:

• paleontology
• geology
• preparation
• research
• curation
• lab work
• dinosaurs
• fossils
• science

[MrRage390]

@AliScientifica What would you recomend to do to get started? (I dont have the money right now for college, but i am saving up, so any other way to get started would be great) Also do you think you could do a video of the actual feild work? =)

[AliScientifica]

@MrRage390 The best way to get started would be to get involved at your local college or museum. Often times, there will be volunteer positions available at labs or on field expeditions, which can help you get your foot in the door. What opportunities are available really depend on where you are and how involved you're willing to get.

I may try to do a video of field work, but I don't have any footage right now, and I won't be going on another expedition until next summer, so it may be a while.

[MrRage390]

How much schooling does it take to become a paleontologist?

[AliScientifica]

@MrRage390 It depends on what you want to as a paleontologist. In general, one needs at least a Bachelor's degree to actually get paid. Most of the jobs are through museums and universities, so often a Master's or Doctorate is necessary. However, there are several people I know who do paleontology who have a degree in a different field or no degree at all. That route requires a lot of luck, though.

tl;dr: It takes between 4 and 20 years of secondary education.

[MrRage390]

@AliScientifica Thank you very much! (Im probly going to have more questions as i progress)  =)