Become aDe-Extinction Specialist

Calling all nature lovers and adventure seekers! Becoming a De-extinction Specialist allows you to be at the forefront of conservation efforts and make a tangible difference in the world. 

Imagine the thrill of discovering long-lost species, reviving ancient ecosystems, and witnessing the wonders of nature come back to life before your very eyes. By dedicating yourself to the revival of extinct species, you’re not just preserving biodiversity – you’re rewriting the story of our planet for generations to come.

• Help bring back extinct species to life.
• Restore lost ecosystems and biodiversity balance.
• Use super science in conservation efforts.
• Contribute to groundbreaking research and discoveries.

As a De-extinction Specialist, your job is to use evolving scientific techniques to bring extinct species back from the dead. From extracting DNA from fossil remains to cloning embryos in the lab, you’ll be at the forefront of genetic engineering and bioinformatics. But it’s not just about the science – you’ll also work closely with conservationists, policymakers, and local communities to ensure that revived species have a safe and sustainable habitat to return to. Whether you’re working in the field or in the lab, every day brings new challenges and opportunities to make a difference.

Using gene editing and cloning technology, De-extinction Specialists will revive lost species and reintegrate them into their natural environments, in order to restore the natural balance that was lost by the species’ extinction. 

Working with ecologists, zoologists and other scientists, De-extinction Specialists will learn how a species’ extinction negatively impacted its former environment. They’ll need to weigh up the risks and benefits of restoring an extinct species. They’ll likely have to seek approval from a local jurisdiction in order to revive a species, so as to limit the negative impact of a species revival. This work will need to be highly regulated to prevent a ‘Jurassic Park-like’ incident, but it will be vital for maintaining species diversity and healthy ecosystems.

As an De-extinction Specialist, you have the opportunity to work in a variety of industries, including:

Conservation

Partner with conservation organisations to revive endangered species and restore ecosystems.

Biotechnology

Join biotech companies that specialise in genetic engineering and cloning technologies.

Research

Work in academic institutions or research labs to advance the science of de-extinction.

Zoos and Wildlife Parks

Collaborate with zoos and wildlife parks to reintroduce revived species into captivity or the wild.

Government

Advise policymakers on the ethical and environmental implications of de-extinction initiatives.

Education

Teach future generations about the importance of conservation and the exciting possibilities of de-extinction.

To succeed as a De-extinction Specialist, you’ll need a diverse set of STEM skills, including:

• Scientific Curiosity
• Genetic Engineering
• Field Research
• Data Analysis
• Teamwork
• Ethical Consideration

These skills will enable you to tackle complex scientific challenges, collaborate with diverse stakeholders, and navigate the ethical dilemmas inherent in de-extinction projects.

Studying certain subjects can provide you with a strong foundation for a career as a De-extinction Specialist:

Biology

Learn about genetics, evolution, and ecology.

Genetics

Understand the principles of DNA sequencing and genetic engineering.

Environmental Science

Study ecosystems, biodiversity, and conservation biology.

Biotechnology

Gain hands-on experience with cloning and genetic manipulation techniques.

Ethics

Explore the ethical considerations surrounding de-extinction and conservation.

By mastering these subjects, you’ll develop the knowledge and skills needed to tackle the complex challenges of de-extinction and conservation.

EXPLORE: https://student.scsa.wa.edu.au/

From digging up fossils in remote locations to working in state-of-the-art laboratories, De-extinction Specialists have some of the coolest jobs on the planet. You might find yourself extracting DNA from ancient bones, sequencing genomes, or even watching a revived species take its first steps back into the wild. 

But it’s not just about the science – you’ll also get to work with amazing people from all walks of life, from fellow scientists to indigenous elders to school children eager to learn about the wonders of nature.

Analyse Ancient DNA Samples

Extract and study DNA from ancient fossils and preserved specimens to unlock the genetic secrets of long-lost species like the woolly mammoth or the Tasmanian tiger.

Collaborate with Global Scientists

Work with a team of scientists from around the world to recreate species, using cutting-edge techniques like gene editing and cloning to bring extinct animals back to life.

Design New Habitats

Plan and design habitats for reintroduced species, ensuring they have the perfect environment to thrive and contribute to biodiversity.

Use 3D Technology for Species Recreation

Utilise advanced 3D modelling and printing to visualise and reconstruct skeletal structures, organs, and even potential behaviour patterns of extinct species.

Lead Ethical Debates on Species Revival

Engage in discussions and debates on the ethics of de-extinction, exploring questions about ecosystem impacts, conservation priorities, and the moral implications of bringing species back to life.

Educate and Inspire Future Scientists (Just like you now!)

Host workshops or virtual reality experiences for students, teaching them about de-extinction science and inspiring the next generation of conservationists and geneticists.

While De-extinction Specialists may not have the same level of fame as movie stars or athletes, there are several renowned scientists and conservationists who have made significant contributions to the field. In Australia, these include:

Dr. Eline Lorenzen

A geneticist and researcher involved in studying ancient DNA and its potential for species revival. While based internationally, her work has influenced de-extinction science in Australia, focusing on using genetic technologies to understand and recreate species from the past.

Dr. Rebecca Johnson

Former Director of the Australian Museum Research Institute and now at the Smithsonian, she has conducted extensive research on wildlife genetics and conservation, contributing to understanding how we might bring back extinct species by studying their DNA.

Professor Lynne Selwood

An Emeritus Professor at the University of Melbourne, her research on marsupial biology and reproductive technology has been critical to discussions around de-extinction, particularly regarding Australia’s extinct marsupials.

Dr. Claire Shepherd

A researcher specialising in molecular biology and wildlife conservation, Dr. Shepherd is involved in projects using genetic technologies to understand and potentially restore lost Australian species, such as the Tasmanian tiger.

To excel as an De-extinction Specialist, you’ll need more than just scientific expertise – you’ll also need a passion for adventure, a love of nature, and a commitment to making the world a better place. Key personality traits include:

• Curiosity
• Resilience
• Empathy
• Creativity
• Collaboration
• Optimism

These traits will help you navigate the challenges of de-extinction projects and inspire others to join you on your quest to bring back lost species and restore our planet’s natural heritage.

By starting with a University degree or College/TAFE diploma you can begin your learning journey:

University Degrees

Genetics or Molecular Biology

Start with a degree in Genetics or Molecular Biology to gain a deep understanding of DNA, gene editing, and cloning technologies, all essential tools in de-extinction science. Universities like Australian National University (ANU) and University of Melbourne offer programs that delve into these topics, providing a solid foundation for working on species revival.

Conservation Biology

A degree in Conservation Biology will equip you with the knowledge to protect and manage wildlife populations, understand ecosystem dynamics, and apply conservation strategies that could support reintroduced species. University of Queensland (UQ) and James Cook University (JCU) are known for their strong programs in this field, combining hands-on experience with theoretical knowledge.

Environmental Science

Studying Environmental Science provides a broader understanding of ecosystems, biodiversity, and the environmental impacts of species reintroduction. Universities like Griffith University and University of New South Wales (UNSW) offer specialised courses that cover topics like climate change, habitat restoration, and sustainable ecosystem management.

SPECIFIC DEGREES:

• Bachelor of Science in Biology with a focus on Genetics
• Bachelor of Environmental Science with a specialisation in Conservation Biology
• Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology with a concentration in Archaeology
• Diploma in Wildlife Management and Conservation
• Certificate in Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology

Postgraduate Studies and Research

Masters or Ph.D. in Evolutionary Biology or Paleontology

Pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree in Evolutionary Biology or Paleontology allows you to specialise in understanding extinct species and their environments. Programs at universities such as University of Sydney and Flinders University offer opportunities to work on groundbreaking research projects, studying ancient DNA and fossils to gather the knowledge needed for de-extinction efforts.

Research Fellowships

Consider applying for research fellowships in de-extinction or related fields. These fellowships, often available at leading research institutions like CSIRO or Australian Museum Research Institute, provide opportunities to collaborate with experienced scientists and work on pioneering projects focused on species revival and genetic rescue.

Did you know that combining different subjects can enhance your journey to becoming an De-extinction Specialist? It’s true! By blending disciplines like biology, environmental science, and anthropology, you’ll gain a holistic understanding of the natural world and its intricate connections across time and space. For example, pairing a degree in genetics with courses in archaeology can provide you with the skills to extract DNA from ancient remains and uncover the secrets of extinct species. With interdisciplinary studies, the possibilities are as vast and diverse as the ecosystems you’ll work to protect!

On-the-job Experience

Don’t forget that hands-on experience is invaluable in this field! Internships, volunteer opportunities, and fieldwork expeditions allow you to apply your knowledge in real-world settings and develop practical skills essential for a career as an De-extinction Specialist. Whether you’re assisting with fossil excavations, participating in DNA sequencing projects, or engaging with local communities, every experience brings you closer to your goal of resurrecting lost species.