University of Adelaide

What you'll study

The honours year builds on undergraduate training by concentrating on integrative study of organismal evolution, the fossil record and methods used to reconstruct past life and environments. Core components include advanced topics in evolutionary theory, systematics and phylogenetics, palaeobiology and taphonomy, and the analysis of palaeoenvironmental data.

• Research project and thesis: A major supervised research project is the focus of the honours year, culminating in a written thesis and oral examination.
• Advanced coursework: Small-group seminars and advanced coursework modules cover contemporary issues in macroevolution, developmental evolution (evo‑devo), functional morphology, and palaeoecology.
• Analytical methods: Training in quantitative methods such as morphometrics, phylogenetic inference, and statistical modelling of evolutionary patterns.
• Laboratory and field skills: Practical experience in fossil preparation, microscopy, stratigraphic logging, taphonomic assessment and field techniques for collection and documentation of palaeontological specimens.
• Specialist electives: Options may include sedimentology and stratigraphy, geochronology principles, ancient DNA and biomolecular approaches where relevant, or advanced vertebrate/invertebrate palaeontology topics.

Entry requirements

Admission to the honours year normally requires completion of a relevant undergraduate degree (for example a Bachelor of Science) with a substantial component of biology, geology or earth sciences and evidence of strong academic performance. Applicants are expected to demonstrate research aptitude through prior research projects, honours-level coursework, or relevant laboratory/field experience. Selection typically involves review of academic transcripts, a statement of research interests, and referee reports; prospective students should also meet the University’s standard English language requirements if applicable.

Career prospects

An honours year in Evolutionary Biology and Palaeontology prepares graduates for a range of research and applied careers. Common pathways include:

• Research and academia: Progression to doctoral study (PhD) or research roles in university and government laboratories.
• Museum and collections work: Positions in curation, collections management, exhibit development and public engagement at museums and heritage institutions.
• Conservation and environmental management: Roles applying evolutionary and palaeoecological knowledge to biodiversity assessment, restoration and conservation planning.
• Geoscience and industry: Technical positions in petroleum, mining and environmental consulting where stratigraphy, palaeoenvironmental reconstruction and fossils inform exploration and site assessment.
• Science communication and policy: Science writing, outreach, education and advisory roles that benefit from specialist knowledge of evolutionary history and palaeontology.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide hosts active research groups in evolutionary biology, palaeontology and earth sciences, offering honours students access to experienced supervisors and interdisciplinary collaboration. Students benefit from proximity to rich South Australian fossil localities and partnerships with museums and research collections, providing exceptional opportunities for fieldwork and specimen-based research. The University’s laboratory facilities, imaging and analytical infrastructure, and established links with national and international research networks support a rigorous honours experience that prepares graduates for further research or professional practice.