NC Scientists Confirm Nanotyrannus as Distinct Tyrannosaur Species

Scientists at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences and North Carolina State University delivered proof that Nanotyrannus lived as a separate tyrannosaur species next to T. rex 67 million years ago. This ended a 40-year argument among paleontologists.

Governor Josh Stein and NC Museum of Natural Sciences Paleontologist Eric Lund held a press conference this week. Student reporters from area grade schools came to discuss the discovery.

"This exciting news is the perfect catalyst to keep kids interested in science," said Governor Josh Stein in a press release. "Student engagement with science begins to decline in eighth grade, so opportunities like these give us a chance to nurture their passion."

Paleontologists in the museum's SECU DinoLab have studied a pair of 67-million-year-old specimens called the "Dueling Dinosaurs" since 2020. The lab is the world's only paleontology preparation facility open to the public on a regular basis.

Governor Josh Stein said he plans to strengthen STEM education in public schools across the state. "I am committed to strengthening STEM education in our public schools and supporting our teachers so that we can equip the next generation to be tomorrow's discovers and innovators," he said.

The governor pointed out that his state has kept its position as a top location for research work. He wants to use this discovery to maintain student interest in scientific fields during critical middle school years.

Student engagement with science drops after seventh grade, according to the governor's statement. The press conference with kid correspondents aimed to spark interest in paleontology among younger students.

Eric Lund answered questions from the young reporters about the discovery process. He works at the NC Museum of Natural Sciences in Raleigh. Lund helped lead the research team that examined the specimens.