Science facilities

Scanning electron microscope image of a weevil

Artificially coloured scanning electron microscope image of a grain weevil (x 50)

The Museum is uniquely placed to prepare, digitise, analyse and interpret natural history materials, from mosquito DNA to Martian meteorites.

Our unrivalled collections, broad expertise and cutting-edge equipment allow us to carry out complex non-destructive analyses of naturally occurring samples, and identify and interpret other materials such as metals, ceramics and composites.

Imaging and Analysis

Preparing and analysing biological, geological and synthetic material for staff, visitors and consultancy projects.

Collections

Browse our world-class collections of animals, plants, fossils, rocks, minerals and microbes.

Conservation Centre

Conserving, preparing and caring for objects from the Museum and providing consultancy and training.

Quarantine facility

Offering specimen treatments and conservation advice for tackling or preventing pest infestations.

Molecular laboratories

Providing facilities and expertise for interdisciplinary research in molecular sciences.

Ore mineralogy laboratory

Analysing the properties of ore minerals using microscopy and spectrophotometry.

Consulting

We provide an international consulting service that draws on the Museum’s research expertise, facilities and collections.