I Am a Paleontologist
They Might Be Giants · Here Comes Science [2009]
With just a pick and brush
Finding fossils is my aim
So I'm never in a rush
The treasures that I seek
Are rare and ancient things
Like velociraptor's jaw
Or archaeopteryx's wing
And all the kids
Who wanna see 'em
Are lining up
At our museum
I am a paleontologist
That's who I am, that's who I am, that's who I am
I am a paleontologist
That's who I am, that's who I am, that's who I am
Could it be an herbivore
Crushing plants with rounded teeth
Or perhaps she's carnivore
Moves so quickly on its feet
It's like pieces of a puzzle
That I love to try and solve
It's so fun to think about
How a species has evolved
Now all the kids
Who wanna see 'em
Can check 'em out
At our museum
I am a paleontologist
That's who I am, that's who I am, that's who I am
I am a paleontologist
That's who I am, that's who I am, that's who I am
Is it a T-Rex? (Digging, digging, digging, digging)
(Digging, digging, digging, digging)
Or a Triceratops? (Digging, digging, digging, digging)
(Digging, digging, digging, digging)
Or is it a Carnosaur? (Digging, digging, digging, digging)
(Digging, digging, digging, digging)
(Digging, digging, digging, digging, dig)
Pachycephalosaurus?
I am a paleontologist
That's who I am, that's who I am, that's who I am
I am a paleontologist
That's who I am, that's who I am, that's who I am
That's who I am, that's who I am, that's who I am
That's who I am, that's who I am, that's who I am
I Am a Paleontologist
They Might Be Giants have long championed educational themes within their eclectic alternative rock catalog, blending whimsical storytelling with accessible melodies. "I Am a Paleontologist" serves as a standout track from their 2009 concept album, Here Comes Science, which was designed to introduce scientific concepts to young audiences. The recording captures the duo's signature ability to transform complex subjects into engaging pop songs without sacrificing their unique sonic identity. By focusing on the study of fossils and deep time, the song reflects the band's broader commitment to making learning entertaining through music. This work remains a key example of how the group utilizes their discography to explore educational topics, maintaining their reputation for intelligent, family-friendly songwriting that resonates across generations.