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The Palaeontological Association provides information on Undergraduate and Postgraduate (Masters and PhD) courses, as well as articles on possible career paths within palaeontology.
Could you picture yourself studying earthquake zones to develop early warning systems, searching for energy resources or analysing fossils to further understand evolution? If so a geology/palaeontology undergraduate course could be for you.
These lists detail the courses and PhD projects that we are aware of. They are by no means exhaustive and the institutions listed, and others, may well be offering additional projects. Further details for many of these projects are available on institutional website. Note that application deadlines can be as early as January, and interviews usually take place during the period January-April.
The Palaeontological Association mentoring scheme aims to assist palaeontologists at the start of their academic careers. The scheme initially focussed on those transitioning from late-stage PhD to postdoctoral positions and from postdoctoral positions to permanent jobs but is now open to Association members at any stage of PhD study and those conducting post-doctoral research who do not have a permanent position. We hope to roll the scheme out to other transition points such as mid-career to senior leadership in the future.
Mentoring is a valuable tool, helping individuals make informed choices via the exchange of knowledge and experience. The scheme uses a direct mentoring approach, with mentors in permanent positions offering direct contact via e-mail, phone and video calls, or other forms of communication. Full guidelines on expectations, lines of communication and length of mentorship are provided. It is expected that mentors should provide open and honest advice whilst maintaining confidentiality at all times. If you are a postgraduate or postdoctoral palaeontologist and are interested in having a mentor please fill out our mentor request form and we will endeavour to partner you with a suitable mentor as soon as possible. Alternatively, if you are a palaeontologist in a permanent position who would be willing to act as a mentor please email Dr Paul Barrett (vicepresident1@palass.org) for more information.