Oxford University Museum of Natural History has been a centre of world-leading research and scientific debate since it opened in 1860. The Museum was the location for the 'Great Debate' of 1860 between Samuel Wilberforce and Thomas Huxley, and was also host to Nobel prize-winning research on the molecular structure of insulin, penicillin, and vitamin B12 by Dorothy Hodgkin.
Research in the Museum encompasses geology, palaeobiology and zoology, with a focus on material housed in the extensive Earth and Life collections. Current research strengths include:
Our research aims to unravel the pattern and process underlying the origin and early evolution of major animal groups, the evolution of body plans, and the assembly of complex metazoan-dominated ecosystems.
Our researchers use a combination of systematics, ecology, physiology, biogeography, developmental biology and behaviour of both extant and fossil arthropods to shed light on evolutionary trends across the group.
Our current research interests include the history of the architecture and decorative interior history of the Museum; the origins of object-led geology teaching in the 19th-century university; the historical and modern significance of natural history cast collections; and the use of 3D models and replicas to enhance the visitor experience within museums.
Laboratory Equipment
LABORATORY EQUIPMENT
The museum has very well-equipped laboratories for palaeontological and zoological imaging and micropalaeontology. Resources include a laser scanner, several multifocal plane microscopes, and a 3D printer. The research group also has strong links with several external partners, facilitating access to computed tomography and synchrotron beamline facilities. Email us at facilities@oum.ox.ac.ukto find out more.
Public Engagement
PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT WITH RESEARCH
Researchers actively participate in the Museum’s extensivepublic engagement programme, and are involved in the development of displays and external exhibitions.
The Museum welcomes approaches from early-career researchers. We are happy to provide advice and support to applicants for independent research fellowships. If you are interested in applying for funding to work at the Museum, please contact: research@oum.ox.ac.uk.
Our visiting fellowships scheme funds research visits to work on the Museum's collections for one to two months.
The 2021-22 visiting fellowship scheme is now closed for applications. The call for applications to the 2022-23 scheme is expected to open later in 2022.
