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.

Three students looking at a mastodon skull
Paleontology Repository interns after helping to flip Dolly the mastodon's skull, January, 2026

See our blog post for more news!

Events

Paleo Party: Travel Back 380 Million Years! promotional image

Paleo Party: Travel Back 380 Million Years!

Wednesday, October 14, 2026 5:00pm to 7:00pm
University of Iowa Museum of Natural History
Come meet "Dunky" and uncover Iowa's ancient past!
Study Hall promotional image

Study Hall

Wednesday, October 21, 2026 10:00am to 12:00pm
University of Iowa Museum of Natural History
The Museum of Natural History welcomes students each week for a study session in our galleries. We'll provide the snacks, cushions, and ambiance. You bring your planners, textbooks, or assignments. Together, we'll stay ahead of our goals this semester.
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