Our staff carry out detailed research
into the collections in our care, to develop and share greater
understanding of our national heritage and history, global
cultures, science and technology and the natural world. We
also share our expertise with other museums through advice, training and
guidance.
Our Art and Design collections concentrate on fine examples of applied art.
Our Natural Sciences collections cover both life sciences and earth sciences. All the collections are global in terms of their content.
Ours is one of the most important collections of scientific and technological material in Britain.
Our archaelogical and Scottish collections cover Scottish material culture from the earliest times to the present day.
Our World Cultures collections include internationally important material from across the globe.
This department preserves our collections and ensures that they are maintained to recognised professional standards.