Senior Paleontologist

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

World-class lab facilities

International travel opportunities

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Paleontologist to lead research and fieldwork near Mossel Bay, Western Cape. You will guide fossil surveys, excavation, analysis, and interpretation to advance knowledge of prehistoric life.

The role requires a Ph.D. in Paleontology or related field and at least 8 years of post-doctoral experience, with a strong publication record and ability to mentor junior researchers in a collaborative setting.

Qualifications

• A Ph.D. in Paleontology or Geology with a Paleontology specialization is required.
• Minimum of 8 years of post-doctoral research experience in paleontology.
• Proven publication record in reputable, peer‑reviewed journals.
• Experience in fossil excavation, preparation, and laboratory analysis.
• Experience in managing research projects and supervising junior staff or students.
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including grant writing ability.

Responsibilities

• Plan, conduct, and supervise paleontological fieldwork, including surveys, excavation, and specimen collection.
• Analyze and interpret fossil specimens, identifying taxa and reconstructing paleoenvironments.
• Utilize advanced imaging techniques (e.g., CT scanning, SEM) for detailed specimen analysis.
• Prepare fossils for curation and long-term storage, ensuring proper documentation and cataloging.
• Conduct research on evolutionary biology, paleobiogeography, and paleoecology.
• Author and co-author peer-reviewed publications in leading scientific journals.
• Present research findings at national and international scientific conferences.
• Mentor and supervise graduate students and junior researchers.

Skills

Analytical skills

Grant writing

Vertebrate/invertebrate paleontology

Publication track record

Team mentoring

Interdisciplinary collaboration

Fieldwork leadership

Education

Ph.D. in Paleontology or Geology with Paleontology specialization

Tools

Paleontological software and databases

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized geological research institution, is seeking a Senior Paleontologist to lead groundbreaking research and fieldwork from their facilities near Mossel Bay, Western Cape. This influential position involves undertaking detailed paleontological surveys, excavation, analysis, and interpretation of fossil remains to advance our understanding of prehistoric life and Earth's history. You will be responsible for managing research projects, mentoring junior paleontologists, publishing findings in high-impact journals, and contributing to public outreach and educational programs. The ideal candidate possesses a Ph.D. in Paleontology or a closely related field, extensive experience in fossil excavation and laboratory analysis, and a strong publication record. You will work with a diverse team of geoscientists and researchers, contributing to significant discoveries that shed light on evolutionary processes and ancient ecosystems. This is a remarkable opportunity to conduct vital research in a region renowned for its rich fossil heritage, based in the stunning natural setting of the Mossel Bay area. We are committed to scientific excellence and fostering an environment where curiosity and discovery thrive. Your expertise will be crucial in uncovering and interpreting the fossil record of this unique part of the world.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, conduct, and supervise paleontological fieldwork, including surveys, excavation, and specimen collection.
• Analyze and interpret fossil specimens, identifying taxa and reconstructing paleoenvironments.
• Utilize advanced imaging techniques (e.g., CT scanning, SEM) for detailed specimen analysis.
• Prepare fossils for curation and long-term storage, ensuring proper documentation and cataloging.
• Conduct research on evolutionary biology, paleobiogeography, and paleoecology.
• Author and co-author peer-reviewed publications in leading scientific journals.
• Present research findings at national and international scientific conferences.
• Mentor and supervise graduate students and junior researchers.
• Collaborate with geologists, archaeologists, and other scientists on interdisciplinary projects.
• Contribute to museum exhibits and public outreach initiatives to promote paleontological science.
• Manage research grants and project budgets effectively.

Requirements

• A Ph.D. in Paleontology, Geology with a Paleontology specialization, or a related field is required.
• Minimum of 8 years of post-doctoral research experience in paleontology.
• Demonstrated expertise in vertebrate or invertebrate paleontology, depending on institutional focus.
• Extensive experience in fossil excavation, preparation, and laboratory analysis.
• Proven track record of publication in reputable, peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Experience in managing research projects and supervising junior staff or students.
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including grant writing ability.
• Proficiency in paleontological software and databases.
• Ability to conduct fieldwork in potentially remote or challenging environments.
• A passion for scientific discovery and communicating complex concepts to diverse audiences.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and research funding opportunities.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous retirement plan with employer contributions.
• Paid relocation assistance to the Mossel Bay region.
• Access to world‑class laboratory facilities and field equipment.
• Opportunities for international travel to conferences and collaborations.
• Paid time off and sabbatical leave options.
• Staff housing assistance may be available.
• Chance to work on significant paleontological discoveries.