Paleontology & Human Origins
Study of fossil hominoids and early human ancestors from the Rift Valley sites of Moroto, Napak and surrounding areas. Ongoing excavations in collaboration with international research institutions.
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Research & Innovation
Advancing knowledge of
Uganda’s heritage
The Uganda National Museum serves as a hub for research in paleontology, archaeology, ethnography, natural history and conservation science. Our collections, laboratories and archives support both institutional research and external collaboration.
Our Research Areas
The museum’s research programme covers five core disciplines, each supported by specialized collections, laboratories and field sites.
Archaeology
Investigation of Iron Age sites, earthworks, rock art and settlement patterns across Uganda. Research includes the Cwezi Empire sites, Nyero rock paintings and pre-colonial trade networks.
Explore area →Ethnography & Material Culture
Documentation of traditional crafts, royal regalia, musical instruments and ceremonial objects. Field research with source communities to record oral histories and cultural practices.
Explore area →Natural History & Biodiversity
Taxonomic research on Uganda’s flora and fauna. Specimen collection, identification and documentation in collaboration with Makerere University and international natural history institutions.
Explore area →Conservation Science
Scientific analysis of materials, deterioration mechanisms and treatment methods for museum collections. Research includes climate control, pest management and preventive conservation strategies.
Explore area →Research Facilities
Our laboratories, libraries and field sites support both institutional researchers and external collaborators.
Conservation Laboratory
Climate-controlled workspace with microscopy, structured-light 3D scanning, and materials analysis equipment. Available for collaborative conservation research projects.
Research Library & Archive
Over 8,000 volumes on African archaeology, ethnography and natural history, plus manuscript collections and historical photographs dating to 1901. Accessible by appointment.
Study Collections
Reserved collections of archaeological, ethnographic and natural history specimens available for comparative study. Visiting researcher access by application.
Field Sites
Active excavation and survey sites at Moroto (paleontology), Bigo bya Mugenyi (archaeology) and Nyero (rock art). Collaborative field projects welcome.
For researchers
Submit a
Submit a
research request
Researchers and students can apply for access to our collections, laboratories, archives or field sites. Requests are reviewed by the Research Committee and typically processed within 14 days.