Alf Museum

All Webb students study paleontology during 9th grade science. 

All students journey into the field on a fossil expedition, unearthing specimens for serious scientific study. Students who develop a passion for this work can continue their study in paleontology through our Honors and Advanced Studies museum research program. 

Students work alongside real-life scientists in the labs at The Alf Museum and conduct original research under the direction of our faculty paleontologists. Students often publish scientific research papers in peer-reviewed journals. 

Opportunities are available for additional independent study at the La Brea Tar Pits Museum. A recent summer student research project was studying insects trapped in tar. 

The science department utilizes the unique resources of the Raymond M. Alf Museum of Paleontology, located on Webb’s campus, as well as other laboratories at local institutions. All science students are introduced to the activities of the museum’s Peccary Society, a group devoted to the collection and preservation of fossils. The Peccary Society makes frequent day and overnight expeditions throughout Southern California, providing students with ample opportunity to get firsthand involvement in paleontological fieldwork. In addition to the Alf Museum, Webb partners with many area institutions to use advanced equipment and connect with experts in multiple fields. These opportunities enable our students to do real science.