In the last – and most important – step in the process, the hard tissue, having been buried, becomes physically altered. Usually this means that the original material is replaced by similar material. For example, as hard as bones are, the minerals they contain gradually decay.

Preservation of remains (protection against scavenging, erosion and environmental damage) High pressure to promote mineralisation of remains (i.e. turn hard body parts into fossilised rocks) Anoxic (low oxygen) conditions to protect against oxygen damage and prevent decomposition by saprotrophs.

Stage 1: A dinosaur dies and is buried before the remains are completely destroyed. Stage 2: Over time, layers of sediment build up and press down on the buried remains. Stage 3: Dissolved minerals, transported by ground-waters in the sediment, fill tiny spaces in the bones.

Fossil formation begins when an organism or part of an organism falls into soft sediment, such as mud. The organism or part then gets quickly buried by more sediment. As more and more sediment collects on top, the layer with the organism or part becomes compacted.

a scientist who specializes in the study of life forms that existed in previous geologic periods, as represented by their fossils:The education program manager for the museum has worked as a paleontologist, digging up dinosaur bones in Wyoming.

Therefore a paleontologist really needs to know about physics, chemistry, biology, and geology. A modern paleontologist needs to have a high level of computer skills and be competent in statistical analysis [source: Paleontological Research Institute].

A paleontologist studies the history and process of evolution by examining fossils, the preserved traces of long dead animals and plants. Using data from fossilized bones, ancient pollen, and other clues, paleontologists dig up the details on past climates and past extinctions.

Paleontology is a tough discipline to work in, there aren’t a lot of jobs available and there are still societal pressures that discourage many people from pursuing this science. But if you truly got the love you can make it as a career, or as a well-loved hobby if that’s your preference.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of geoscientists including paleontologists is projected to grow an estimated 6% between now and 2028.

As with many other academic careers, though, there are more paleontologists than there are jobs. in paleontology, it might be (and probably will be) very difficult to find steady work. This is why you can’t just want to be a paleontologist; you really have to feel the need to be a paleontologist.