About
Together our diverse collection and historic building occupy a special place, both in the study of the history of science and in the development of Western culture and collecting.
Our Museum preserves the objects, instruments, writings, and materials scientists have created to tame, travel, and transform the world around them.
As a department of the University of Oxford, we present these inspiring stories of science to visitors, and make the collections available to historians for study.
We look after around 20,000 objects which cover almost all aspects of the history of science, from ancient to modern times. In particular, we are known for our collections of:
- astrolabes
- sundials
- early mathematical instruments
together with scientific apparatus associated with:
- chemistry
- medicine
- communications.
and our famous Einstein's Blackboard.
The Museum's unique reference library on the history of scientific instruments includes:
- manuscripts
- prints
- early photographic material.
If you're curious to know more, you can:
- tour our online galleries
- search the online Collections Databases
- book a research visit
- plan your visit if you're in Oxford.
We look forward to welcoming you.
"rarely was science in Oxford more on people’s mind globally than this year"
Dr Silke Ackermann, Director, History of Science Museum, Oxford
From Oxford Instruments and Alice in Typhoidland to new Curators, remote working, and memorable moments with Multaka — take a look at our latest Annual Review.
