Research

We apply our broad expertise and cutting-edge techniques to tackle new questions, delivering insights that 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, supported by our collections, facilities and partners from across the globe.

Related links

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 Master’s courses and PhD research projects in partnership with other leading institutions and universities.

News from our scientists

Science news

Sequencing the DNA of all species of UK wildlife could generate up to £3 billion

The Darwin Tree of Life project aims to sequence the genomes of all complex life in the UK.

16 April 2026

Science news

‘World’s oldest octopus’ fossil isn’t an octopus after all

Pohlsepia mazonensis is still a landmark fossil – but not in the way it was first thought.

9 April 2026

Science news

Seal tooth pendant reveals ancient human culture and long-distance trading

The identity of a mysterious artefact found in Devon almost 160 years ago has finally been revealed.

8 April 2026

Science news

More than 100 species set to go extinct in Britain by 2080

The UK is one of the most nature depleted nations on Earth – and it’s about to get worse.

31 March 2026

Science news

Dozens of deep-sea species discovered as new crustaceans named

Twenty-four new species of crustaceans have been discovered as part of a project to name 1,000 deep-sea animals by 2030

30 March 2026

Science news

Oldest evidence of domestic dogs discovered in Europe and Türkiye

Bones unearthed at several sites show that dogs were widely distributed across West Eurasia by at least 14,000 years ago.

25 March 2026

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