Belizean student blazes a trail as country’s first paleontologist

By Horace Palacio: Alson Ovando’s passion for paleontology ignited at a young age, sparked by the wonder of “Jurassic Park.” Today, the Belizean graduate student is poised to make history as his country’s first paleontologist. He is currently pursuing a Master of Science degree in geosciences at East Tennessee State University (ETSU).

Ovando’s groundbreaking journey hasn’t been easy. When he expressed his dream of meeting a paleontologist as a child, his mother gently explained, “There are no paleontologists in Belize.” Undeterred, he sought out archaeologists as the closest alternative.

Despite Belize’s rich potential for paleontological discoveries, the field remains largely unexplored. Ovando explains that past geological studies focused mainly on identifying natural resources. While some small-scale fossil studies have occurred, much work remains to be done. Ovando is determined to pioneer the scientific groundwork for paleontological research in Belize.

Ovando’s path led him to earn a bachelor’s degree in natural resources management from the University of Belize, as no geology or paleontology programs exist in the country. He gained vital experience through internships and volunteer work, including assisting with raptor migration research and archaeological excavations.

A chance encounter with archaeologist Dr. Jaime Awe connected him to Dr. Blaine Schubert, a professor in ETSU’s Department of Geosciences. Recognizing Ovando’s potential, Dr. Schubert welcomed him into the graduate program.

Adjusting to student life in the United States has had its challenges, but Ovando remains focused on his studies. He recently received a Small Grant in Support of a Thesis or Dissertation from the ETSU College of Graduate and Continuing Studies, aiding his research on Belize’s Pleistocene Era.

After completing his master’s degree in 2025, Ovando plans to pursue a Ph.D. in paleontology and ultimately return to Belize. His goal is not only to conduct important paleontological research but to also establish paleontology as a recognized field within his country. Inspired by the Gray Fossil Site in Tennessee, he envisions creating similar spaces where Belizeans can experience the wonders of natural history.

“My research will unveil Belize’s ecosystems dating back hundreds of thousands of years,” Ovando explains. ”This is just the beginning, and I’m excited to share these discoveries with my country and the world.”

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