Paleontology is a branch of science which deals with the study of prehistoric life including the study of fossils to resolve organism evolution and interactions with one another and their environments. There are a number of people who love to learn newer details regarding the history of life on Earth. The subject started developing in the 18th century when there were astonishing developments in the field of astronomy. The difference the subject has with the historical sciences is that the historical sciences are concerned only regarding the causes rather than the effects. The merging of three specialized branches of science, namely, biology, archaeology and geology gave birth to Paleontology.

Various life forms have evolved on the earth surface since the prehistoric era and each of them has been related to their environment in some way or the other. The subject of paleontology is involved with the study of this relation and about the life forms. In simpler terms, this subject deals primarily with the detailed study of fossils of dinosaurs, plants and animals (constituting of terrestrial, aerial and marine animals), and so on. Engineering and biochemical techniques are hugely incorporated in the paleontological researches. Also the use of mathematical models and various tools of mathematics are indispensable in case of the studies conducted during the researches.

General outlook of Paleontology course

Paleontology is classified into two branches- one relating to the study of fossils and the other covering the studies related to the understanding of the prehistoric climate and environment. With the advancements in the tools of detection, investigation techniques and devices, paleontology has emerged as a very specialized branch of science.

Career Opportunities in the field of Paleontology

The career scope in this field is huge provided a person is capable of performing critical jobs requiring detailed knowledge and expertise. The work in this field is not only paying but also interesting. A paleontologist is required to travel to historic and exotic places in search of evidence of primitive life. There are numerous geological as well as archaeological research institutes in India and also in various countries abroad which is always on the lookout for qualified paleontologists. The talent ones have huge opportunities in these institutes in various job openings according to their qualification and interest. Apart from research, the candidates can also take up teaching assignments in paleontology and allied subjects in various prominent institutes such as Geological Survey of India, Paleontological Research Institution, College of Natural Sciences, and Bangor University and so on.