LUOMUS

Luomus, short for Luonnontieteellinen keskusmuseo, is Finland's Natural History Museum and a national center for biodiversity research and public science education. Based in Helsinki, it maintains and develops Finland’s national natural history collections, including specimens in zoology, botany, paleontology, and geology. The collections span centuries and contain type specimens, rare objects, and extensive field material from Finland and abroad.

Luomus conducts research in taxonomy, systematics, ecology, and conservation biology, collaborating with universities, research institutes, and international networks. It contributes data to national and international biodiversity databases and hosts researchers, graduate students, and visiting scholars. The institution participates in initiatives such as FinBIF, the Finnish Biodiversity Information Facility, to digitize and disseminate collection data.

For the public, Luomus operates exhibitions, educational programs, and outreach activities that aim to broaden understanding of biodiversity and natural history. It maintains public galleries, hosts lectures and family programs, and provides online resources, virtual tours, and digital collections whenever possible. It also supports teachers and schools with curricula-aligned materials and research-informed learning experiences.

As a national center, Luomus plays a key role in conservation science and in preserving Finland’s natural heritage for future generations. It collaborates with national partners to facilitate research, education, and informed stewardship of biodiversity.