Department: Paleontology Department

Supervisor: Tylor Birthisel, Paleontology Lab Manager; Casey Allen, Dinosaur Park Director

With training in fossil preparation, collections care, and record-keeping protocols, they assist our curatorial staff in making sure our collections are available to scientists, researchers, and the public, both within our walls and around the globe.

Much like the Paleontology Fossil Preparator volunteers at NHMU, Ogden Dinosaur Park Paleontology Fossil Preparators work with vertebrate fossils collected in the field, which often require much cleaning and stabilization prior to being able to be handled for research or used for public exhibition. Fossil preparators prepare fossil material using techniques learned through the mandatory training class. This includes matrix removal using manual and mechanical means, fossil consolidation, and fossil repair. Fossil preparation involves considerable detail work using fine tools, often under a magnifying lens or microscope. Some tools used are vibration based and are very noisy. Specimens are often broken into many small fragments which need to be carefully pieced back together.

Paleontology Fossil Preparator volunteers are a hugely important factor in recording, protecting, and preserving the fossil record of Utah at NHMU.

Shift times: Volunteer time following training and practicum is flexible and may be done at any time the Dinosaur Park is open.

Time Commitment: A minimum of 15 hours per month is required, for a minimum duration of six months.

Age Requirement: 18 years or older