A vertebrate paleontologist studies fossils from animals that have backbones, or vertebra, such as mammals and fish. This is a specialized niche within the paleontology sciences that allows the scientist to focus on the evolution and age range of the organisms. The vertebrate paleontologist can deduce scientific facts about the historical climate and the organism’s habits based on these concentrations.
The paleontologist must also understand rock formation and subsequent layers near the Earth’s surface in order to study vertebrates. All major rock types, including sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic, contain fossils. Depending on the rock layer in which an organism is discovered, a vertebrate paleontologist can infer many facts about its life, such as age. Deeply buried fossils are usually older than those found nearer the surface of the Earth.
Another important function of a vertebrate paleontologist is documentation. Each fossil must be described in detail, including the size, color, texture, and orientation of the fossil, which must be written down as detailed notes and saved alongside multiple photos. These notes can be compared to other similar fossils discovered in the past, allowing vertebrate paleontologists to see how evolution has progressed.
This scientist will frequently travel to different regions to study newly discovered fossils. The majority of unearthed fossils are skeletons that haven’t seen the light of day since the organism died. To preserve the structure of the fossil, the vertebrate paleontologist must carefully excavate it from the ground. Any damage to the fossil during excavation can have a negative impact on future studies, leading to inaccurate conclusions about the life and habits of the organism.
A possible teaching career in vertebrate paleontology is another aspect of the field. Many vertebrate paleontologists work as professors at universities, where they can take advantage of the high-tech tools and software available to study fossils more thoroughly. These experts can share their knowledge with students, assisting them in learning the science of vertebrate paleontology. Some students may be assigned to assist the professor with note-taking and scientific observation.
To work as a vertebrate paleontologist, you must have a four-year college degree; however, many people go on to get a master’s or doctorate degree. Most American universities will not allow a vertebrate paleontologist to teach until they have earned a doctorate. In fact, some scientists must obtain a doctorate in order to be considered for funding for new fossil research, especially if the research entails travel and work in a foreign country.