IU Paleontology Collection

The IU Paleontology Collection stands as a cornerstone of Indiana University's commitment to the IUB 2030 Strategic Plan, exemplifying its dedication to transformative grants and exceptional academic experiences. Through its extensive holdings of fossil specimens, the Collection fosters groundbreaking research that shapes our understanding of Earth's history. This resource-rich environment not only offers unparalleled opportunities for hands-on learning but also equips students with the skills needed for the evolving landscape of museum careers in the 21st century.

Faculty who are affiliated with the collection include members and fellows of the US National Academy of Sciences (NAS), the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), the Geological Society of America (GSA), and the Guggenheim Foundation. The collection has underpinned more than $1.5m in research grants and produced hundreds of scientific publications. The collection serves as a living classroom, providing both undergraduates and graduates with experiential learning opportunities that extend far beyond the traditional lecture hall. Moreover, it champions undergraduate research, empowering students to actively contribute to the field of paleontology. By focusing on stratigraphy, paleontology, museums, and public land management, the IU Paleontology Collection plays a pivotal role in preparing students for a wide array of impactful and fulfilling careers in the natural sciences and related disciplines. Our students are now employed as publishers, university faculty, government scientists, land managers, museum curators, and even in the online gaming industry, embodying the vision set forth in the IUB 2030 Strategic Plan.