Research at the Naturéum

Natural history collections and scientific research lie at the heart of the Naturéum. Whilst the public knows it primarily for its exhibitions, the museum is also a scientific institution: its mission is based as much on the generation of knowledge as on the conservation and study of its collections.

The Naturéum brings together around twenty researchers who carry out original research there, ranging from Earth sciences to the study of living organisms: taxonomy and systematics, evolutionary biology, conservation genetics, palaeontology and mineralogy. Far from being mere exhibition pieces, the collections – comprising 7 million specimens – constitute a genuine research infrastructure. They document the diversity of nature and inform both scientific work and the exhibitions presented to the public.

This research is carried out in close partnership with the University of Lausanne, and more broadly with the Swiss and international academic communities. The museum also welcomes scientists and students, whom it involves in its programmes.

Discover the museum’s scientists and their work.