Discover a gateway to world-class research and education

The Paleontology Repository is a public research facility developed to support and fulfill the mission of teaching, research and service of the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences and the University of Iowa. This is an international research resource that houses type specimens and makes them accessible to the scientific community as proscribed by the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature. The collection is the property of the State of Iowa, held in trust for the public.

Explore ancient wonders

Gather research insights

Uncover hidden treasures

Every discovery tells a story.

At the heart of paleontology lies the quest to uncover the past. It's about piecing together fossilized evidence, analyzing ancient life, and understanding how the world and its creatures evolved over time.

By exploring these remnants, we gain insight into not just what existed, but why those life forms thrived and ultimately changed the course of history.

Evelyn Gonzalez placing supports under fragile portions of bone.

Events

Read on the Rug promotional image

Read on the Rug

Wednesday, June 11, 2025 10:30am to 11:00am
University of Iowa Museum of Natural History
Read on the Rug is back with monthly offerings! Join us on the second Wednesday of each month in Iowa Hall at the UI Museum of Natural History for Read on the Rug. Ideal for families with kiddos aged 2-5, all are welcome to this free educational program. This program series was designed with our youngest museum lovers in mind. Come along as we build community and inspire a sense of wonder, curiosity, and respect for our natural and cultural worlds with stories, sing-alongs, and more in one of...
Read on the Rug promotional image

Read on the Rug

Wednesday, July 9, 2025 10:30am to 11:00am
University of Iowa Museum of Natural History
Read on the Rug is back with monthly offerings! Join us on the second Wednesday of each month in Iowa Hall at the UI Museum of Natural History for Read on the Rug. Ideal for families with kiddos aged 2-5, all are welcome to this free educational program. This program series was designed with our youngest museum lovers in mind. Come along as we build community and inspire a sense of wonder, curiosity, and respect for our natural and cultural worlds with stories, sing-alongs, and more in one of...
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News and updates

A Moldy Situation (Pt. 2)

Friday, August 5, 2022

A Moldy Situation (Pt.1)

Tuesday, August 2, 2022

To Dry a Mastodon

Tuesday, August 2, 2022