Polymetallic nodules are home to many deep-sea species, such as this bryozoan, image by Adrian Glover, Thomas Dahlgren, Helena Wiklund
Our scientists are pioneering techniques that will accelerate the classification of new species, explain patterns of change in the natural world, measure global biodiversity and tackle challenges in food and health.
The Museum’s vast collections of vertebrates, invertebrates, plants and microbes support our staff's unique expertise in evolutionary biology, biodiversity and systematics.
Invertebrates
Investigating the taxonomy, systematics and biodiversity of groups of invertebrates.
Algae, Fungi and Plants
Studying a wide variety of plants, including bryophytes, ferns and flowering plants.
Diversity and informatics
Using big data to research the evolution, ecology and interactions of a wide range of organisms.
Insects
Conserving and researching the Museum's vast insect collections.
Vertebrates
Determining the diversity, biogeography, taxonomy and phylogeny of vertebrates.
Life sciences news
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Science newsWe need to act now to save nature
It will cost us double to preserve nature unless we act now, Museum scientists have found.
11 February 2021 -
NewsPerfectly preserved 4,000-year-old beetles uncovered
A pristine pair of ancient beetles were discovered in the Museum collection. They date back nearly 4,000 years.
28 January 2021 -
Science newsNew insights will help the world protect future wheat supplies
The world needs wheat crops that are bountiful, disease resistant and able to thrive in soil without fertilisers.
25 November 2020 -
NewsOne of the world's biggest sanctuaries for wildlife has just been created
The most remote inhabited island in the world has become one of the biggest wildlife sanctuaries on the planet.
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Science newsNew species of monkey is already critically endangered
The Popa langur lives on an extinct volcano in Myanmar.
11 November 2020 -
Science newsEarth's bacteria are 44% more diverse than previously thought
Researchers created a database of 52,515 microbial draft genomes of samples from all over the world.
9 November 2020 -
Science news40% of plants are threatened with extinction
The extinction risk to plants could be worse than previously thought, according to a landmark report.
30 September 2020 -
Science newsNature 'unravels' as animal populations plummet
Animal populations have declined by 68% since 1970.
10 September 2020
Collections
Browse our world-class collections of vertebrates, invertebrates, plants and microbes.
Museum blog
Read the latest blog posts from our scientists.
Core research labs and consulting
Our research labs are available for complex analyses of biological samples.