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Paleontology – Geology (Natural Sciences) |

Vangelis Vlachos

Vangelis Vlachos
  • Doctoral Studies
  • Patagonia, Argentina

About Me

My name is Vangelis Vlachos and I was born in Karditsa. I studied Geology at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, where I also specialized in Vertebrate Paleontology. My research focuses primarily on fossil turtles, especially the giant terrestrial species that lived in Greece up to 2 million years ago.

In 2015, I continued my research as a postdoctoral fellow at the most important paleontological institute in Patagonia, the Museo Paleontológico Egidio Feruglio, where I studied the evolutionary history of the terrestrial turtles that once inhabited the region. This experience allowed me to explore the unique landscapes of Patagonia — one of the best places in the world for fossil discovery.

Since 2019, I have been a permanent researcher at the National Scientific and Technical Research Council of Argentina (CONICET), working at the same institute. My goal is to study how the diversity of these reptiles has changed throughout their evolutionary history and to determine whether — and to what extent — turtles were affected by local or global extinction events.

My work includes field excavations to uncover fossils, studying specimens in museum collections around the world, and analyzing them using various techniques. I have discovered many important fossils and several new species. I have also contributed to the creation of paleontological museums and exhibitions across Northern Greece.

Why I Chose My Career

I belong to the famous “Jurassic Park generation” — one of those kids who dreamed of becoming a paleontologist after watching that unforgettable movie. Over time, I discovered that Paleontology is a truly unique science: it keeps you constantly connected with nature, allows you to travel the world, and offers the perfect balance between hands‑on fieldwork and analytical research.

Paleontology is more than a profession — it is a way of life. It opens a window into the past, a real journey through time that helps us understand the evolution of life on Earth through the remains of animals and plants that lived long before us.

Why I Became a Volunteer at R.E.A.L Science

Paleontology is deeply connected with children — through books, movies, toys, and cartoons. Every paleontologist feels the need to share their science with young people through teaching and educational activities.

R.E.A.L Science gives me the opportunity to reconnect with children and students through outreach and education, something I have missed greatly since leaving Greece. Volunteering with R.E.A.L Science feels like a promise to the child I once was — the child who walked out of the cinema nearly 30 years ago dreaming of becoming a scientist.