What is Paleo Expedition?
Paleo Expedition is a unique, hands-on paleontology field experience led by scientists and educators from the University of Oklahoma for Oklahoma high school students currently enrolled in grades 9, 10 and 11. Space is limited and the application process is competitive.
Twelve selected students will begin their 13-day residential adventure with scientists and educators from the University of Oklahoma’s Sam Noble Museum. Students will gain a better understanding of the science of paleontology through lessons, hands-on experiences at the Sam Noble Museum and traveling to various paleontological and geological field sites throughout Oklahoma. The program will culminate with the students implementing what they have learned while helping paleontologists dig up dinosaur fossils in the Black Mesa region of Oklahoma. Students will explore the present and past ecosystems with paleontologists, while learning basics such as mapping, GPS navigation and camping survival.
Paleontological work will include discovery and identification of many types of fossils. Students will spend most of their time outdoors sleeping in tents and cabins where they will be supervised by highly experienced and trained staff. Students will hike through uneven terrain in summer heat nearly every day. Working alongside scientists from the University of Oklahoma, students will have the unique opportunity to experience hands-on participation in field-based science, where the laboratory is the great outdoors.
Join the Paleo Expedition team on this unforgettable adventure in science and create lasting friendships and memories!
Selection: Students are selected to create an ExplorOlogy® team that is varied and creative. Selection criteria include:
- Interest and enthusiasm in science and paleontology
- Written short answer responses
- Teacher recommendation
- Location of school and home
- Interview at the Sam Noble Museum
Questions? Please check our FAQ page or contact us at explorology.samnoblemuseum@ou.edu.
Past Paleo Expeditions: 2016, 2015, 2014.
