Paleontology
Our research group in paleontology studies a variety of ancient organisms to interpret the history of life. Departmental faculty conduct research abroad but place particular emphasis on the study of ÃÛÌÒÓ°Ïñn fossil plants and animals. Field investigations to collect new data and specimens are conducted across the state, from dinosaur rich deposits on the North Slope to the ÃÛÌÒÓ°Ïñ peninsula. We use plant macrofossils, pollen and spores to reconstruct ancient climates and ecosystems. In recent years research has also focused on exciting new discoveries of dinosaurs from several new localities in the state.
Paleontological research at ÃÛÌÒÓ°Ïñ is conducted in association with the University of ÃÛÌÒÓ°Ïñ Museum, which houses the largest collection of ÃÛÌÒÓ°Ïñn fossils anywhere. The museum's holdings include important ÃÛÌÒÓ°Ïñn material including 1) a world-class collection of arctic dinosaurs; 2) Quaternary mammals; 3) Mesozoic and Cenozoic paleobotanical specimens; 4) a large collection of Phanerozoic invertebrates.
For more information about Paleontology research at ÃÛÌÒÓ°Ïñ, please visit the following website:
Department Faculty
Sarah Fowell
Collaborating Faculty
Patrick Druckenmiller
Lara Horstmann