Dr. Tsogtbaatar Khishigjav, Merited Scientist of Mongolia, Doctor of Science, Professor, and former Director of the Institute of Paleontology at the Mongolian Academy of Sciences, passed away on June 23, 2026, at the age of 67. His death marks a significant loss for the global paleontological community.

Born on January 25, 1959, in Yeröö soum, Selenge Province, Mongolia, he graduated in Biology from the National University of Mongolia in 1981 and earned his Ph.D. from Kagoshima University, Japan, in 2008. For 45 years, Dr. Tsogtbaatar held successive positions at major Mongolian scientific institutions, including researcher, laboratory head, and director, playing a pivotal role in the development of Mongolian paleontology.

A leading expert in dinosaur systematics, evolution, and paleobiogeography, he led numerous international expeditions with partners from Japan, the United States, Canada, Europe, and Asia. Through the long-term Mongolian-Japanese “Ancient Ecosystems of the Gobi” project and other collaborations, he helped discover and describe many important fossils. His research contributed to the naming of numerous new dinosaur taxa, including Plesiohadros djadokhtaensis, Gobihadros mongoliensis, Choyrodon barsboldi, Oksoko avarsan, and others. In recognition of his contributions, the therizinosaur Duonychus tsogtbaatari was named in his honor.

Dr. Tsogtbaatar authored 97 scientific papers, and over 200 popular articles, many published in prestigious international journals. He was a strong advocate for fossil protection and repatriation, and he worked to establish a national geopark at the “Shar tsav” fossil site. A dedicated mentor, he trained the next generation of Mongolian paleontologists and strengthened international scientific ties.

His many honors include the Order of the Polar Star, the Red Banner of Labor, and the title of Merited Scientist of Mongolia.

Dr. Tsogtbaatar’s lifelong dedication, scientific achievements, and warm mentorship leave a lasting legacy in paleontology. He is survived by his family and will be deeply missed by colleagues worldwide.

As a Council member of the Asian Palaeontological Association, Dr. Tsogtbaatar made important contributions to the development of APA and to the promotion of international cooperation in palaeontological research across Asia. His commitment to scientific collaboration and friendship earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues throughout the region and beyond.

On behalf of the Asian Palaeontological Association, we extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and the Institute of Paleontology of the Mongolian Academy of Sciences. His memory and legacy will continue to inspire future generations of palaeontologists.

Published by the Asian Palaeontological Association (APA), June 2026