Finding a job
To enter the field of palaeontology it is likely that you will need to undertake further study of some kind. For anyone wishing to work in the museum sector or the oil and gas industry a postgraduate qualification would be required. For anyone wishing to enter the geotechnical, environmental or construction sectors a relevant postgraduate qualification would be desirable and for those wishing to become a researcher whether in a university or research institution, you would need a PhD.
On this page you will find details of further study courses to consider if you wish to specialise further in the paleontological field, and job sites to browse if you are broadening your graduate job search to different sectors.
Further study
Examples of relevant postgraduate courses include:
- MSc Palaeobiology
- MSc Micropalaeontology
- MA Museum Studies
- MRes/MPhil/PhD in Palaeontology
- MSc (Res) Palaeontology and Geobiology
- MSc Engineering Geology
- MSc Environmental Geology and Land Contamination
- MSc Geological and Environmental Hazards
- MSc Archaeology (Palaeoanthropology)
- MSc Palaeoanthropology and Palaeolithic Archaeology
The universities providing postgraduate courses in this subject area include University of Birmingham, University of Bristol, University of Edinburgh, University of Leicester, University College London, University of Manchester, University of Portsmouth and University of Southampton. You can research postgraduate course options on the Prospects or FindAMasters websites.
We recommend starting your search using our online jobs board, MyCareer. You can also find general online job boards and advice through our Graduate Jobs page.
Sector Specific Job Boards
Recruitment agencies
Recruitment consultants work with individuals to help them find suitable work to match their skills. Agency Central is the UK's leading recruitment agency directory. An advanced search and filter system finds the agencies which match your needs.
Are you looking for a role in Hampshire? Our Graduate Recruitment Consultancy can help!
If you're in the final year of your degree, you can register for support from our Graduate Recruitment Consultancy. They work with over 3,000 employers in the local area to place our students into fantastic graduate careers.
Speculative applications
Speculative applications involve sending a CV and cover letter to an employer to ask if they have any vacancies, even if the company is not currently advertising for a role. They're a great way to access "hidden jobs" that go unadvertised.
Submitting a speculative application shows your interest in a specific company and your willingness to go above and beyond to develop your skills and understanding of the industry.
Learn how to send a speculative application
Keep up-to-date with the industry
It's good to keep up-to-date on sector developments and track any vacancies coming up. Below are some great resources to help you research opportunities available. The knowledge gained through your research may help you to target your applications and will help when preparing for interviews.
- The Palaeontological Association - one of the world's leading societies of palaeontology
- The Geological Society
- How to become a Palaeontologist - article by Dr Susie Maidment of the Natural History Museum
- Becoming a Palaeontologist - more information about the role of a Palaeontologist
- New dinosaur species discovered by a UoP PhD student - Guardian article
- Palaeontology undergraduate and YouTuber - MyPort article about UoP undergraduate Ben Thomas
