paleontologist

noun, plural pa·le·on·tol·o·gies for 2.

1. the science of the forms of life existing in former geologic periods, as represented by their fossils.
2. a treatise on paleontology.

n.1836, from paleontology + -ist. n.1833, probably from French paléontologie, from Greek palaios “old, ancient” (see paleo-) + ontologie (see ontology). Related: Paleontological.

1. The scientific study of life in the geologic past, especially through the study of animal and plant fossils.

The study of ancient life forms, particularly as they are seen in fossils.