Why study at the Museum?

With a long history of scientific research around its collections, the Museum has played a key role in training the next generation of scientists.

The Museum is recognised as a leading scientific research facility. Our publication record places us in the top group of international natural history museums.

Facilities

Students have access to the Museum's many research facilities to prepare, analyse and interpret biological, mineralogical, palaeontological and genetic samples.

Imaging and Analysis Centre

3D Vis Lab, CT and Micro-CT, chemical analysis, confocal microscopy, electron microscopy, light microscopy, microanalysis, mineralogy preparation laboratory, X-ray diffraction, electronic and light engineering workshop

Collections Management Systems

(GIS) Geographic Information Systems facility, data management

Conservation Centre

Paper conservation, mechanical preparation

Molecular Laboratories

DC2 Molecular Labs, Whale Basement Molecular Lab, sequencing facility

The PhD training programme

Induction

The training programme includes a full-day induction to working in the Museum, including health and safety, security, IT, library and laboratory procedures. This day is an introduction to the work and organisation of the Museum, the structure and role of the Postgraduate Office and other practical issues.

All new students should undertake a training needs analysis to assess and guide their development needs. Technical training is provided by relevant laboratory and curatorial staff.

First year talks

All new students give a ten-minute introduction to their PhD topic to their Museum peers and supervisors within a few of months of their start.

Public engagement

There are many opportunities for students to participate in public engagement activities, receiving training as appropriate. These include:

• Nature Live presentations
• Museum lates
• Crime Scene live
• Dino Snores