Our research themes

At the Museum, nearly six hundred researchers, assisted by just as many engineers, technicians and administrative staff, are constantly studying the evolution of our planet and its occupants, both human and non-human. The wealth of our libraries and invaluable collections spans all continents, and includes current and ancient animals and plants, rocks, fossils and anthropology. This allows us to be one of the few institutions able to explore the world around us in all its forms, across all levels of organisation of living organisms and time, from its origins to the present day.

A large number of disciplines from the life sciences, earth sciences, archaeology and anthropology are represented in our three major scientific departments, which work together to decipher the secrets of Man and Nature and their interactions.

Recognised worldwide, the results of our research are shared with the international community through more than a thousand scientific articles published each year. They serve as a basis for teaching. This knowledge is also essential for designing and evaluating biodiversity conservation policies, which is at the heart of our expert mission. We disseminate it to all our audiences through our exhibitions, scientific meetings and symposia, the Tribunes et Manifestes du Muséum and our statements in the media.

In this way, out in the field and here within our walls, new and ambitious research projects are born, leading to major advances. Recently example of this include the description of more than 600 new animal and plant species, evidence of a loss of pollination efficiency in connection with climate change, new proof that Neanderthal man buried his dead, and the revelation of Queen Marie-Antoinette's love letters.

Our researchers are pushing the boundaries of knowledge, while also making young and old dream! Make sure you are along for the ride. Dive into the scientific adventure!