University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Research Professor, School of Geosciences; Curator of Paleontology, Geology Museum / Lafayette Science Museum.
Meet the founder
Dr. James E. Martin
Paleontologist • Geologist • Research Professor • Museum Curator
A career devoted to uncovering ancient life, preserving scientific collections, and mentoring future generations of researchers.
A lifetime of discovery
Science in the field, laboratory, and classroom.
Dr. James E. Martin has been active in paleontological and geological research for decades, combining fossil field investigations with museum leadership, university teaching, and scientific publication.
His experience includes vertebrate fossils from Jurassic through Holocene deposits and research across North America, Antarctica, Argentina, Europe, and Australia. His work spans ancient marine reptiles, fossil mammals, geological mapping, and the preservation of paleontological resources.
Beginning in 2013, his academic and museum work at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette has included research, fossil collection and curation, exhibitions, graduate instruction, and public outreach.
Academic background
Education & professional credentials
1971
Bachelor of Science
Geology, with honors
South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
1973
Master of Science
Geology / Paleontology
South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
1979
Doctor of Philosophy
Geology
University of Washington, Seattle
Dr. Martin's professional qualifications include Certified Professional Geologist accreditation and geological licenses or registrations in Louisiana, Washington, and Wyoming.
Career highlights
Leadership, exploration & recognition
South Dakota School of Mines and Technology
Executive Curator, Museum of Geology; Professor of Geology and Geological Engineering, with teaching, research, and graduate mentorship responsibilities.
Antarctic field expeditions
Participated in scientific fieldwork in Antarctica during multiple expeditions, alongside international paleontological research.
International Discovery of the Year Award
Recognition from the Royal Geographical Society of London / Discovery Channel Europe.
South Dakota Hall of Fame
Inducted in recognition of his professional contributions.
James E. Martin Paleontology Research Laboratory
A 33,000-square-foot research facility at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology was dedicated in his honor.
Honorary Citizen of Lafayette
Recognized by the city of Lafayette, Louisiana.
Selected scholarship
Research & publications
Dr. Martin has authored, coauthored, and edited a substantial body of research. Selected examples from his supplied bibliography include:
- Geology and Paleontology of the Late Cretaceous Marine Deposits of the Dakotas (co-editor, 2007).
- The stratigraphy of the Big Cut Locality, Gilliam County, northern Oregon (2021).
- The earliest known North American bovid, Neotragocerus (with J. I. Mead, 2023).
- The vertebrate paleontology of the Miocene Big Cut Locality, Gilliam County, northern Oregon (2025).
His broader work includes fossil vertebrates and biostratigraphy, particularly concerning marine reptiles and Cenozoic mammals
Full curriculum vitae
Explore the complete professional record
Download Dr. James E. Martin’s full 2026 biographical data and bibliography (PDF, 12 pages).
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