Fossil Realm Magazine

Dr. Lukáš Laib in the Fezouata lagerstätte near Zagora, Morocco. Credit: Martina Nohejlová.

Czech palaeontologist Dr. Lukáš Laibl shares wide ranging tips for anyone interested in the study of fossils. His dedicated research about trilobite development and evolution (and trilobite larvae in particular) provides a glimpse into the excitement of discovering unexpected facts about the prehistoric past. Dr. Laibl’s road to a career in palaeontology was heavily influenced by natural history books and he was happy to recommend several books and resources for fellow enthusiasts and aspiring palaeontologists.   

"Mummified" Nodosaur (new armoured dinosaur). Image courtesy of the Royal Tyrrell Museum, Drumheller, AB. 

The Royal Tyrrell Museum's exciting new exhibit, Grounds for Discovery, showcases many marvellous fossil specimens that were discovered accidentally through industrial activity. The exhibit is a testament to Alberta’s collaborative relationships between palaeontologists and major corporations, like the energy giant Suncor. We had the pleasure of discussing the unique premise behind the exhibit (and the mummified Nodosaur) with Dr. Don Brinkman, the Royal Tyrrell Museum's Director of Preservation and Research.

In our first instalment of "Profiles in Paleontology" we share a lively and informative discussion with geology professor and paleontologist Jacqueline M. Richard. Several topics were covered, including her pathway to a career in paleontology, teaching experiences at Delgado Community College, fieldwork in Nevada and North Dakota and the challenges of excavating sauropod bones. She also spoke about her fascinating work with microfossils aimed at understanding the extinction event that wiped out the dinosaurs, 66 million years ago.