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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NewsMicroplastics in seabirds linked with increase in illness-causing bacteria
Microplastics aren't just affecting large animals, they're also affecting microscopic species too.
27 March 2023 -
Science newsPlastic diet could be causing seabird chicks to shrink
The body mass of young shearwaters has deteriorated in just over a decade, with plastic consumption believed to be the most likely cause.
24 March 2023 -
NewsBiodiversity at risk as development encroaches into 80% of vital habitats
Development in Key Biodiversity Areas poses a risk to the stability and survival of unique ecosystems.
24 March 2023 -
Science newsNatural history museums around the globe contain over 1.1 billion objects
The specimens and objects held in museums around the world represent an astonishing resource.
23 March 2023
