Become aMegafauna Researcher

Are you curious about the incredible creatures that once ruled the Earth? Becoming a Megafauna Researcher allows you to satisfy that curiosity while making groundbreaking discoveries that can change our understanding of the world. It’s a career where adventure meets science, offering you the chance to explore remote locations, uncover fossils, and contribute to the global knowledge of our planet’s history.

• Explore extinct creatures that roamed the Earth.
• Discover ancient fossils and solve prehistoric mysteries.
• Travel to remote locations for field research.
• Contribute to understanding Earth’s evolutionary history.

As a Megafauna Researcher, your main task is to study the largest animals that have ever lived on Earth. This includes conducting field research to discover fossils, analysing data to understand their behaviour and ecology, and communicating your findings to the scientific community and the public.

Megafauna Researchers have a wide range of opportunities to explore their passion for prehistoric creatures across various industries. Here are some exciting fields where you can apply your expertise:

Paleontology

Delve into the past by working in museums, research institutions, or universities, studying fossils and reconstructing ancient ecosystems.

Conservation

Help protect endangered species today by studying their prehistoric counterparts and understanding the factors that led to their extinction.

Environmental Consulting

Use your knowledge to assess the impact of human activities on wildlife habitats and propose strategies for conservation and preservation.

Documentary Filmmaking

Bring the world of megafauna to life by working on documentaries that showcase the wonders of prehistoric creatures to audiences worldwide.

To succeed as a Megafauna Researcher, you’ll need a diverse set of skills to navigate the challenges of scientific exploration and discovery. Here are some key skills you should develop:

• Critical Thinking

• Attention to Detail

• Fieldwork Expertise

• Analytical Skills

• Communication Skills

Building a solid foundation in STEM subjects will prepare you for the exciting journey of becoming a Megafauna Researcher. Here are some STEM subjects that will help you unlock the secrets of prehistoric giants:

Biology

Understanding the fundamentals of life sciences is essential for studying the anatomy, behaviour, and evolution of megafauna.

Geology

Explore the Earth’s history and learn how to identify and interpret fossils in different geological formations.

Paleontology

Dive deeper into the study of ancient life forms, including dinosaurs, mammals, and other prehistoric creatures.

Environmental Science

Gain insights into ecosystems, biodiversity, and the impact of environmental changes on animal populations.

Picture yourself digging up dinosaur bones in the desert, discovering a new species of prehistoric shark, or trekking through remote jungles in search of elusive giant sloths. As a Megafauna Researcher, every day brings new adventures and opportunities to make groundbreaking discoveries that capture the imaginations of people around the world.

Excavate Giant Fossils

Travel to dig sites to unearth and preserve the bones of massive extinct creatures like Diprotodons or giant marsupials.

Analyse Fossil Remains

Use advanced technology like CT scans or 3D modelling to study the anatomy and behaviours of ancient megafauna.

Reconstruct Ancient Ecosystems

Piece together how these prehistoric giants lived, interacted, and survived by analysing environmental data and fossils.

Collaborate with International Researchers

Work with experts from around the world to compare fossil discoveries and further understand global megafauna extinction events.

Present Findings to the Public

Share research in engaging talks or exhibits at museums, inspiring others with the wonders of Earth’s prehistoric giants.

Protect Fossil Sites

Work with governments and conservation groups to ensure that important fossil locations are preserved for future research.

Dr. Sue Hand

A renowned palaeontologist at the University of New South Wales. Her work on Australia’s extinct megafauna, including giant kangaroos and wombats, has significantly advanced the field of evolutionary biology.

Dr. Alistair Evans

Dr. Evans has made key contributions to understanding the biomechanics of ancient megafauna species. As a researcher at Monash University, her studies have explored how these creatures adapted to their environments.

Dr. Dorothy Steadman

Working at Flinders University, has been instrumental in discovering and analysing fossils from Australia’s megafauna, providing new insights into their extinction and the impact of climate change.

Dr. Barb Crampton

From the University of Queensland has played a leading role in investigating the behaviours and habitats of extinct megafauna, with her research often taking her to remote fossil-rich regions across Australia.

Beyond skills, certain personality traits are crucial for thriving in the adventurous world of Megafauna Research. Here are some traits that will help you navigate the challenges and excitement of this career:

• Curiosity
• Adventurous Spirit
• Persistence
• Creativity
• Empathy

Bachelor of Science in Paleontology

A specialised degree focusing on fossilised life forms, where students learn excavation techniques, fossil analysis, and ancient ecosystem reconstruction.

Bachelor of Science in Biology with a Focus on Evolutionary Biology

This degree provides a deep understanding of how species evolve over time, which is crucial for understanding megafauna extinction and survival.

Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science

Students learn how environmental factors shape species and ecosystems, gaining the skills to study the impact of past climates on megafauna.

Bachelor of Science in Geology with a Focus on Paleontology

This degree provides insight into Earth’s history and how geological changes influenced the lives and habitats of ancient species.

Postgraduate Studies

Many Megafauna Researchers pursue master’s and doctoral degrees to specialise further in evolutionary biology or paleontology.

Picture this: You’re not just a scientist; you’re also an adventurer, a storyteller, and a problem-solver. That’s where interdisciplinary studies come in! By combining degrees like Biology and Creative Writing, or Environmental Science and Archaeology, you’ll develop a unique set of skills that will set you apart in the world of Megafauna Research. So, don’t be afraid to think outside the box and craft your own path to success!

As you begin on your journey to become a Megafauna Researcher, get ready to go deep into the realms of biology, geology, paleontology, and environmental science. You’ll learn how to identify fossils, analyse data, and piece together the puzzle of Earth’s ancient past. But it’s not just about textbooks and lectures; you’ll also gain hands-on experience through fieldwork, where you’ll trek through jungles, scale mountains, and unearth the treasures hidden beneath the earth’s surface. Get ready for an adventure like no other!

Who says learning only happens in the classroom? As a budding Megafauna Researcher, gaining work experience can be key to seeing if this career or industry is right for you, while also honing your skills and expanding your horizons. Look for opportunities at a local museum, with a research team, or with organisations that conduct field expeditions. Every opportunity to get your hands dirty and immerse yourself in the world of Megafauna Research could bring you one step closer to your dream career.

But wait, what if university isn’t your thing? Don’t worry, there are still alternative paths to becoming a Megafauna Researcher!

Fieldwork and Internships: Participating in excavation projects or museum internships can provide hands-on experience and networking opportunities in the field.

Vocational Education and Training (VET): Short courses in geology, biology, or environmental science can serve as supplementary qualifications.

Western Australia

With its rich fossil deposits and unique ecosystems, Western Australia has  opportunities for aspiring Megafauna Researchers. From the rugged landscapes of the Kimberley to the ancient caves of the Nullarbor Plain, there’s plenty of adventures waiting to be had!

Australia

Beyond Western Australia, the whole of Australia is a playground for Megafauna Researchers. Whether you’re exploring the ancient rainforests of Queensland, the fossil-rich cliffs of Victoria, or the remote outback of the Northern Territory, there could be something new and exciting to discover.

Rest of the World

And don’t forget, the world is vast when it comes to Megafauna Research! From the frozen tundra of Siberia to the lush jungles of South America, there are endless opportunities to explore the mysteries of ancient giants on every continent. So pack your bags and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!