University of Montana Paleontologist and Geosciences Professor George Stanley Earns Smithsonian Title

George Stanley, a paleontologist and geosciences professor at The University of Montana, has earned a prestigious new title – research associate – from the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.

The honorary appointment was made in recognition of his professional status in the scientific community. Individuals worldwide with outstanding publications and achievements are selected by the Smithsonian for the honor.

Stanley joins 234 other scientists around the globe who have earned the recognition. The appointment is for three years,
and during that time he is invited for active association and research collaboration with the Smithsonian, the world’s largest museum complex and research organization.

“I am really elated,” Stanley said. “This appointment affirms my efforts as an active international researcher in the field of paleobiology.”

He said the appointment will allow him to work whenever he wishes at the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C., as well as at its network of research facilities around the world.

Stanley is a paleontologist specializing in the global evolution of coral reefs, the paleobiology of ancient life and the reconstruction of paleogeography using plate tectonics. He worked as a geologist at the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C., before joining the UM faculty in 1982.

Stanley directs UM’s Paleontology Center, which houses more than 100,000 vertebrate, invertebrate and plant fossils representing the ancient heritage of Montana and other regions.

Contact: George Stanley, UM geosciences professor, 406-728-1532, [email protected].

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