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 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.

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

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

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.