What Is A Paleontology Degree And Its Job Prospects

Paleontology is the study of ancient organisms and life, using a variety of scientific methodologies. However, with a paleontology degree, you can work in a variety of sectors. If you choose to pursue a paleontology degree, you should read about the various occupations available with this credential. In this post, we will explain what a paleontology degree is and provide the key responsibilities and incomes of ten careers that may be obtained with a paleontology degree.

What is a paleontology degree?

Earning a degree in paleontology usually entails a series of courses that lead to a Ph.D. Although employers may not necessarily require candidates to have a Ph.D., having one can boost your job prospects. Many paleontologists select their field of study after studying a number of related academic subjects, such as biology or geology. Here are some examples of courses you could take while pursuing a paleontology degree:

• Geology
• Mineralogy
• Sedimentary petrology
• Ecology
• Vertebrate and invertebrate paleontology
• Genetics
• Physics
• Chemistry
• Calculus
• Biology
• Biochemistry
• Evolution
• Stratigraphy

10 jobs you can pursue with a paleontology degree

Here are some prospective occupations you could pursue if you have a paleontology degree. For the latest recent Indeed wages, please click on the links below.

1. Lab assistant

• National average salary: $38,427 per year

Lab assistants work in research and testing facilities, usually alongside a scientist or doctor, to conduct experiments and test materials or substances. Working as a lab assistant necessitates a high level of concentration and professionalism, as the materials used in labs are frequently poisonous or otherwise hazardous to humans. Lab assistants are typically students looking for hands-on experience while also pursuing their degree.

2. Research assistant

• National average salary: $40,514 per year

Research assistants are members of a scientific team who are supervised by a principal researcher. Research assistants frequently labor outside of traditional lab or office settings, collecting samples or data from a variety of locales while conducting fieldwork. Aside from taking notes, collecting, and analyzing samples, research assistants frequently clean and disinfect equipment after usage.

3. Journalist

• National average salary: $45,351 per year

Journalists may work for newspapers, broadcast studios, magazines, or other news organizations, investigating stories and reporting on them. With a paleontology degree, these experts could work as scientific journalists, reporting on noteworthy paleontological findings from throughout the world. Journalists generally operate in a variety of settings. They may travel for weeks to gather information and take notes before settling into an office to compose an article.

4. Curator

• National average salary: $53,861 per year

Curators work in public-access facilities such as museums and libraries. A curator is in charge of procuring artifacts or specimens for display at their facility, as well as organizing and maintaining those displays. Curators may also offer guided tours or talks to visitors to their museum. Curators frequently serve as consultants to researchers, as they typically have vast knowledge in their particular subjects.

5. Professor

• National average salary: $54,037 per year

Professors are members of the faculty at higher education institutions who teach courses, grade assignments, and deliver lectures. Frequently, individuals can use university facilities or resources to investigate their own research questions. Professors often have significant understanding of their area of interest, thus most universities require them to have at least a master’s degree in that field. While working at a university, academics may occasionally publish their research in academic publications.

6. Research coordinator

• National average salary: $60,245 per year

A research coordinator is someone who manages research projects. They’re in charge of securing money, setting schedules, and coordinating facilities for research teams to use. Their responsibilities are typically administrative, therefore employers may not always require research coordinators to be experts in their field of study. However, having a high level of knowledge in their field might be advantageous because it allows them to better analyze the demands of a research team.

7. Environmental specialist

• National average salary: $64,302 per year

Environmental specialists may investigate a specific place or biome to determine how it operates, or they may monitor the influence of human activity on a given ecosystem. Many environmental specialists work for government agencies, including those in charge of air and water pollution. Environmental specialists may also be hired as part of a research team that does fieldwork or works with endangered animals. To become an environmental specialist, you must have at least a bachelor’s degree in a related discipline and work experience as a research assistant.

8. Lab manager

• National average salary: $73,250 per year

Lab managers supervise laboratory operations to ensure that team members follow correct safety regulations and budgetary constraints. Lab managers are also in charge of organizing timetables, ensuring security, and providing their facility with the resources needed to perform research properly. Private corporations and public colleges frequently hire lab managers.

9. Forensic analyst

• National average salary: $83,009 per year

Forensic analysts study locations and items to learn about historical events. Many forensic analysts operate as crime scene investigators, looking for evidence and information that can help authorities. Forensic analysts frequently specialize in geology, osteology, or hematology.

10. Research scientist

• National average salary: $84,830 per year

Research scientists are members of a research team who supervise assistants and collaborate with a research coordinator to carry out studies. Research scientists frequently work in subjects such as medicine, chemistry, and biology. A research scientist’s job responsibilities are frequently determined by the company where they work. Universities may also hire these individuals and steer their research toward a certain issue of their choice.