A vertebrate paleontologist studies fossils of organisms with backbones, focusing on evolution and age. They must understand rock formation and document each fossil found. They may also teach and need a doctorate to receive funding for further study.
A vertebrate paleontologist studies fossils derived from organisms with backbones, or vertebrae, such as mammals and fish. This career path is a specialized niche in the sciences of paleontology, allowing the scientist to focus on the evolution of organisms and the specific age group. As a result of these concentrations, the vertebrate paleontologist can deduce scientific facts about the historical climate and habits of the organism.
This study of vertebrates also requires the paleontologist to understand rock formation and subsequent layers that occur near the Earth’s surface. Fossils are found in all major rock forms, including sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic types. A vertebrate paleontologist can infer many facts about an organism’s lifespan, such as age, depending on the rock layer it is in. Deeply buried fossils are generally older than items found closer to the Earth’s surface.
Documentation is another fundamental duty performed by a vertebrate paleontologist. Each fossil found must be thoroughly described; fossil size, color, texture, and orientation should be noted as detailed notes and saved along with several photos. These notes can be compared with other similar fossils found in the past, allowing the vertebrate paleontologist to see a progression in evolution.
Often this scientist travels to different regions to study recently discovered fossils. Unearthed fossils are usually skeletons that haven’t seen the light of day since the organism’s death. These finds must be carefully excavated from the ground by the vertebrate paleontologist to preserve the structure of the fossil. Any accidental damage to the fossil during excavation could have negative impacts on future studies, causing inaccurate deductions about an organism’s life and habits.
Another aspect of vertebrate paleontology is a possible teaching career. Many vertebrate paleontologists work at universities as professors; they can use the high-tech tools and software found at these schools to study the fossils more carefully. These scientists can share their perspective with students, helping others learn the art of vertebrate paleontology. Some students may actually work alongside the teacher, assisting with note-taking and scientific observation.
A four-year college degree must be obtained to work as a vertebrate paleontologist; however, many people complete additional studies to earn a master’s or doctoral degree. Most universities in the US will not allow a vertebrate paleontologist to teach until a doctorate has been obtained. In fact, some scientists need to earn their doctorate to be eligible to receive funding for further study of fossils, especially if the study involves traveling and working in a foreign country.
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