PetroStrat is proud to announce our endorsement of the brand-new National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA) Micropalaeontology MSc course. This program represents a vital educational path for the next generation of micropaleontologists and helps address a growing skills gap in the specialised field of biostratigraphy.
As a world-leading employer of biostratigraphers, we recognise the importance of fostering interest in microfossils and developing young, talented future biostratigraphers. We are excited to support and spotlight this exciting new course.
We wish the course organisers and future students the very best for their inaugural class in 2025!
Why is this micropaleontology MSc so important?
Micropalaeontology plays a crucial role in various industries. As well as traditional applications in the energy industry, the data gleaned from these microscopic fossils is also important in environmental monitoring and climate change research. To provide a sustainable future for micropalaeontology, it is essential to nurture the interest of young geoscientists in this important discipline. This course provides the ideal syllabus for students to develop their passion and expertise and empower them with the skills to embark on a career in academia or in industry. We at PetroStrat fully endorse this course and believe it will be an invaluable asset to the industry.
About the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
Founded in 1837, the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens is the oldest and arguably the most prestigious university in Greece. Today it is also one of the largest in Europe, with over 69,000 registered students. It has a long and distinguished history of academic excellence, alongside impactful research contributions across a wide range of disciplines.
Some words from the academic staff
“We are proud to inaugurate the MSc course ‘Industrial and Environmental Applications in Micropaleontology” in the Department of Geology and Geoenvironment at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, within our ever growing interest and involvement in basic and applied research concerning contemporary environmental problems.”
Prof. Assimina Antonarakou, Member of MSc Coordination Committee, Head of the Department of Geology and Geoenvironment
“Nothing is enough for the man to whom enough is too little”. Inspired by the words of ancient Greek philosophy, we at IDEA-M master course are eager to welcome all Micropaleontology-lovers who are looking for knowledge that is more than enough!”
Prof. Maria Triantaphyllou, MSc Director
“Our world is like a puzzle – piece the clues together to see the full picture”
Prof. Katerina Kouli, Member of MSc Coordination Committee
IdEA-M (Industrial & Environmental Applications in Micropalaeontology) Course
Course Overview
This comprehensive MSc course will offer comprehensive training in the main microfossil groups and their applications to industry and environmental career paths. This multidisciplinary course combines taught elements (lectures, practicals) alongside individual research-based projects and fieldwork. The innovative course empowers graduates with the knowledge and skills to kick-start a career in the energy industry, both in traditional exploration settings and in energy transition sectors. This flexible syllabus likewise opens options in environmental studies, including climate monitoring and paleoclimate research.
Highlights of this course
- With a specialised focus on micropalaeontology, this course opens up a world of career paths in energy, environmental and academic settings.
- Master a vital tool for unlocking the secrets of Earth’s past. Microfossils are a key tool in biostratigraphy, palaeoceanography, and environmental reconstruction.
- Put into practice what you learn in the classroom with hands-on practical training (laboratory, practical workshops and field work).
- Support from leading academics and industry professionals, the syllabus has been crafted by micropalaeontology experts from universities and research institutes from around the world.
- Achieve a globally recognised MSc. qualification
IdEA-M Syllabus
The MSc in Micropalaeontology at NKUA delivers a rigorous and detailed syllabus designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the field. Key modules include:
- Quantitative methods and statistical applications
- Fundamentals, taxonomy, morphology, ecology and applications of each microfossil group
- nannofossils and coccolithophores
- foraminifera
- spores, pollen and other terrestrial palynomorphs
- dinoflagellates and other aquatic palynomorphs
- ostracods
- siliceous microfossils
- Carbonate microfacies analysis
- Biostratigraphy and chronostratigraphy
- Applied stratigraphy and formation evaluation
- Palaeoceanography and climate variability
- Environmental micropalaeontology
- MSc. Dissertation
- Fieldwork data collection
- Oral presentation
- Autonomous study
- Laboratory, microscopy, computational work
- Submission of final thesis
Enrolling now for 2025 academic year
Duration: 3 semesters
Programme starts: Fall semester
Venue: Faculty of Geology and Geoenvironment, National & Kapodistrian University of Athens
- The MSc Programme admits up to 20 students per academic year.
- Courses are taught in English
Deadline 15th March 2025
