Our collections represent astonishing diversity, from fossils showing evidence of the earliest forms of life, to internationally important material from across the world.

Our staff hold a wealth of knowledge and expertise. They can provide advice on collections, their identification, care and management to representatives from organisations holding a public collection in Scotland.

  • A hand wearing purple latex gloves holding a pencil, writing labelling information on the edge of an old white cardboard drawing.

    Collections Services

    Collections Services provides conservation, collections care, collections management, digitisation, analytical science, and library services expertise.
  • A museum case with examples of colourful ceramic plates, jugs, and vases.

    Global Arts, Cultures & Design

    Our Global Arts, Cultures and Design collections include internationally important material from across the world.
  • A wide strip of polished silver with a smooth top edge and a scalloped bottom edge. There are old letters engraved the full length of the piece bordered by engraved patterns.

    Scottish History & Archaeology

    Our collections represent Scottish material culture from the earliest times to the present day.
  • Close up of many interlocking silver cogs inside a machine.

    Science & Technology

    Our collections cover a broad range of scientific and technological material, and are amongst the most important in Europe.
  • Natural Sciences

    Our Natural Sciences collections cover both life sciences and earth sciences.
  • A shelf of thin, hardcover books with different coloured spines. They have library labels at the base.

    Library Services

    Supporting the research and learning needs of Museum staff, visitors, and the wider external research community.

Downloads List

Requests can be made by email to the relevant member of staff in our collections directorate. Our directory is organised to help you find the support and advice you are looking for. 

Our Guide to Collections Advice tells you what advice we can offer you and how.