Museum scientist Anne Jungblut samples biofilms on the McMurdo ice shelf in Antarctica
Our scientists
More than 300 scientists work in Earth and life sciences, our core research labs and library and archives.
Our work
An acclaimed research institution, we publish over 700 scientific papers a year with international collaborators.
The collections
Where 80 million objects span 4.5 billion years, from the formation of the solar system to the present day.
Our work
A new science and digitisation centre
We’re moving some of the collections to a new science and digitisation centre.
Biodiversity
Developing new molecular and digital tools for discovering biodiversity.
Anthropocene and sustainability
Securing the future of our food, health and natural materials.
Discovery, origins and evolution
Researching life on Earth and environmental change.
Collections
Explore the 80 million specimens that are a globally important resource for scientific reference and research.
Science departments and staff
Find the scientific staff at the heart of our world-class research and collections.
Library and Archives
The world's finest collection of natural history literature, artwork, photography and manuscripts.
Core research labs and consulting
Specialist staff prepare, analyse and interpret samples in our state-of-the-art facilities.
Courses and students
Students at the Museum access the collections, research, engage the public and gain skills.
The life of a Museum scientist
What do our curators and researchers get up to? Find out in our blog.
Digital collections
We are digitising large parts of the collections and giving online access to the data.
Science, society and skills
We are inspiring a new generation of professional and amateur scientists through training, art and community science.
News
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NewsClimate change 'survival guide' finds 1.5⁰C is achievable, but needs urgent action
The latest climate report reveals that the world is more than capable of tackling climate change, but current action simply isn't enough.
20 March 2023 -
NewsBumblebees solve puzzles by learning from their peers
Bumblebees develop new 'trends' in their behaviour by watching and learning from other members of the group.
17 March 2023 -
NewsNatural History Museum was the UK's most visited indoor attraction in 2022
We're the UK's most popular indoor attraction for the second year running.
17 March 2023 -
Science newsExtinctions on the island of the dodo are pushing plants towards extinction
Almost a third of Mauritius' native fruits are no longer being dispersed as no animals are big enough to swallow their seeds.
16 March 2023
