What do you call a person who studies fossils?

A person who studies fossils is called a paleontologist. Fossils are records of early life forms that are carefully preserved. Paleontologists study all types of fossils, from bacteria to human bones.

Paleontologist usually hold a bachelors degree or higher. Science, math and computer training are highly suggested for those entering the field of paleontology. Typical places for a paleontologist to work include museums, historical state or government facilities and universities. Paleontologists use fossils to determine a wide variety of information about many different aspects of past organisms, including their identity and origin, their environment and how they evolved while on earth.