Research

We are using our broad range of expertise and cutting-edge techniques to answer new questions that will benefit both people and the planet.

Two curators hold specimens next ro a table full of items from the collections

Research themes

Our nine research themes provide a focus for our work so we can find solutions to some of the biggest global challenges.

Projects

Explore our broad portfolio of research, which is supported by our collections, our facilities and partners from across the globe.

You may also be interested in

Collections, data and services

Find out how you can access our world-renowned collections as well as our data, library, labs and other science facilities.

Postgraduate study

We offer a range of Masters courses and PhD research projects in partnership with other leading institutions and universities.

People

Search our directory of 300+ scientists from across the Museum.

News from our scientists

Science news

Early British lizard relative among the first known to climb trees

Marmoretta oxoniensis was a climber, not a swimmer.

16 April 2025

Science news

Ancient humans ritually feasted on great bustards as they buried their dead

Butchered remains of great bustards have been found in the graves of people buried 15,000 years ago. 

16 April 2025

Science news

To save insects, we need to understand their decline

In order to better target interventions we need to know which causes have the biggest impacts.

4 April 2025

Science news

Evidence of deep-sea mining still visible over four decades later

The impact it has had on the life living down there has been more mixed. 

26 March 2025

Science news

Fossil of ancient crustacean gathering reveals new insights into their lives

Rare evidence about the lives of an ancient group of arthropods has been uncovered in the USA.

19 March 2025

Science news

World’s oldest known cerapodan dinosaur discovered in Morocco

The earliest example of an important and widespread group of dinosaurs has been found in North Africa.

18 March 2025

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