Paleontology conference bans researchers tied to Jeffrey Epstein after court revelations

A paleontology conference has banned certain researchers linked to Jeffrey Epstein from attending its events. The move follows the release of court documents naming scientists who interacted with the convicted sex offender. DinoCon, the organiser, is now urging other groups in the field to take similar steps.

The decision comes as the Society of Vertebrate Paleontology confirmed some of its members appeared in the Epstein files. However, no direct evidence has emerged of high-level paleontologists working with Epstein on research after his 2008 conviction.

DinoCon announced it will exclude only those who had direct contact with Epstein after his conviction. The group is also pressing other paleontology organisations to act against members connected to him.

Epstein had a long-standing interest in science, particularly evolution. He hosted dinners and meetings with prominent scientists, including paleontologist Jack Horner. Horner, known for advising Jurassic Park, visited Epstein's ranch in 2012 and 2016. During the 2012 trip, they discussed potential funding for a research summit. Horner also went fossil hunting with Epstein and later asked him for financial support.

In 2012, Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell joined Robert F. Kennedy Jr. on a fossil-hunting expedition, according to Maxwell's interview with the US Department of Justice. Epstein's donations to scientific institutions included a $6.5 million gift to Harvard in 2003 for its Program for Evolutionary Dynamics. MIT professor Seth Lloyd, who accepted Epstein's funding, later apologised to victims and was placed on leave.

While Epstein funded various research projects, the released court files do not show evidence of senior paleontologists collaborating with him on specific studies after his conviction. His foundation supported broader scientific initiatives, but detailed records of direct paleontology work remain unsubstantiated.

DinoCon's ban targets only those with post-conviction ties to Epstein. The Society of Vertebrate Paleontology has acknowledged its members' appearances in the files but has not announced further action. The case highlights ongoing scrutiny of Epstein's connections to academic and scientific circles.