Senior Paleontologist - Lead Field Research & Discoveries

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

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.