The Sedgwick Museum will create a world leading centre for research into its exceptional collections of rocks and fossils, which will have a network of cutting-edge researchers at its heart. The museum will take a leadership role around the care and usage of earth science collections, as well as open the collections to the public and create sustainable volunteering opportunities for the community.

Hedley Swain, Area Director, South East, Arts Council England, said: “Our museum collections are an incredible resource to inspire, entertain, engage and educate audiences. It is important that they are protected, whilst remaining available to all. The creation of the Collections Research Centre for Earth Science will not only ensure The Sedgwick Museum remains at the forefront of research in the field, but also mean that the general public can get greater access to its wonderful collection.”

Dr Liz Hide, Museum Director, The Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences, said: “This is a hugely exciting opportunity to open up the Museum's collections of rocks, fossils and minerals to researchers and to our communities, realising the potential of this important international resource. We are very grateful for the support of Arts Council England in this next chapter of the Museum's development.”

  
Designation Development Fund

Recognising the importance of maintaining excellent collections across the country, the Designation Development Fund supports projects that ensure their long-term sustainability, maximise public value and encourage the sharing of best practice across the sector. This round was open to Designated library collections for the first time, with four successfully receiving funding.

The Designation Development Fund provides funding for organisations already recognised by the Designated Scheme, which champions national and internationally significant collections held in museums, libraries and archives.

For more information contact:
Nisha Emich, Communication Officer, Arts Council England
Tel: 020 7268 9563 / Email: Nisha.Emich@artscouncil.org.uk

All images Copyright 2019 Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences 

Monday - Friday: 10am - 5pm

Saturday: 10am - 4pm

Sunday: Closed

Free entry

Studying Earth Sciences at Cambridge University

Discover more about studying Earth Sciences at the University of Cambridge in this video featuring Museum Curator of Mineralogy and Petrology Professor Marian Holness and Sir David Attenborough