Challenges and directions in analytical paleobiology

Over the last 50 years, access to new data and analytical tools has expanded the study of analytical paleobiology, contributing to innovative analyses of biodiversity dynamics over Earth's history. Despite-or even spurred by-this growing availability of resources, analytical paleobiology faces deep-rooted obstacles that stem from the need for more equitable access to data and best practices to guide analyses of the fossil record. Recent progress has been accelerated by a collective push toward more collaborative, interdisciplinary, and open science, especially by early-career researchers. Here, we survey four challenges facing analytical paleobiology from an early-career perspective: (1) accounting for biases when interpreting the fossil record; (2) integrating fossil and modern biodiversity data; (3) building data science skills; and (4) increasing data accessibility and equity. We discuss recent efforts to address each challenge, highlight persisting barriers, and identify tools that have advanced analytical work. Given the inherent linkages between these challenges, we encourage discourse across disciplines to find common solutions. We also affirm the need for systemic changes that reevaluate how we conduct and share paleobiological research.

Automated summary

Over the past 50 years, the study of analytical paleobiology has been expanded due to the availability of new data and analytical tools, leading to innovative analyses of biodiversity dynamics in Earth's history. However, analytical paleobiology still faces obstacles in terms of equitable access to data and best practices for fossil record analysis. Recent progress has been made through collaborative, interdisciplinary, and open science approaches, particularly among early-career researchers. This article discusses four challenges faced by analytical paleobiology from an early-career perspective and highlights efforts to address these challenges, as well as the need for systemic changes in paleobiological research practices.