A key objective is developing critical observation skills, both in theoretical study and practical work (e.g., analyzing fossil remains in collections and fieldwork). Students will learn to interpret fossil records in terms of geological time, ancient environments, and fossilization processes, bridging the connection between sedimentary dynamics and biological evolution. This combined approach equips students with the tools to reconstruct Earth’s past environments and life history through the integrated study of sediments and fossils. Refer to the detailed description of the modules SEDIMENTARY GEOLOGY and PALEONTOLOGY for detailed decription of the learning goals.

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Sedimentary Geology and Paleontology integrates foundational knowledge of sedimentary processes with the study of fossil organisms to provide a comprehensive understanding of Earth's history. The course covers: Sedimentary processes, including their causes, driving forces, and sedimentation mechanisms. Sedimentary environments, the types of sediments, and their transformation into sedimentary rocks. Classification, description, and interpretation of sedimentary rocks. Classification and description of main fossil groups. Paleobiological principles, such as paleobiodiversity, taphonomy, evolution, paleoecology, and biostratigraphy, with an emphasis on their relevance to Earth Sciences. The course is organized in two modules: Sedimentary Geology and Paleontology. Detailed description of the contents can be found in the syllabi of the two modules

Handouts provided by teacher (powerpoints of classes). Nichols G. - Sedimentology and Stratigraphy. Blackwell, Oxford. General Palaeontology Briggs D.E.G. & Crowther P.R. – Palaeobiology - Blackwell Systematic Palaeontology Milsom C. & Rigby S. – Fossils at a glance - Wiley Armstrong H.A. & Brasier M.D. – Microfossils –Blackwell

This course integrates the study of sedimentary rocks and fossils to unravel Earth’s history. Students will explore sediment formation, transport, and deposition, learning how environmental factors shape sedimentary records. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on lab and field work, emphasizing practical skills in rock and fossil analysis. The SEDIMENTARY GEOLOGY module module examines sediment origins, sea-level influences, and depositional environments—from deep marine to desert systems. Students will analyze rock textures, structures, and classification, focusing on clastic, carbonate, and evaporite formations. Stratigraphic principles, including litho- and chronostratigraphy, provide a framework for interpreting geological time. The PALEONTOLOGY module covers fossil preservation, evolution, and paleoecology. Key topics include taphonomy, major evolutionary events, and applications of fossils in dating and environmental reconstruction. Students will study microfossils (e.g., foraminifera) and macrofossils (e.g., trilobites, mollusks), linking them to age and sedimentary contexts. Field excursions and labs reinforce concepts, training students to interpret sedimentary successions and fossil assemblages. By course end, students will be able to reconstruct past environments and correlate stratigraphic units using geological and paleontological tools. Refer to the syllabi of the two modules for a detailed description of the contents.

Lectures and practical exercitations.

This course is composed of two modules: SEDIMENTARY GEOLOGY PALEONTOLOGY

The exam consists of two independent parts, corresponding to the two modules SEDIMENTARY GEOLOGY and PALEONTOLOGY. The final grade is calculated as a weighted average of the grades obtained in the individual modules, based on the respective credits. The minimum passing grade is 18/30, the maximum is 30/30. Please refer to the individual module syllabi for a detailed description.

This course explores topics closely related to one or more goals of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (SDGs).