Science & Technology
Welcome to the Science and Technology department. We research, maintain and monitor one of the most important collections of scientific and technological material in Europe.
Our collections are open to researchers for examination, and we'd be happy to help you conduct research. Please contact our staff to enquire.
Contact list of staff members
Science & Technology department
Our collections
The Science and Technology collections are broad-based, ranging from scientific instruments made in the eleventh century to cutting-edge developments in renewable energy technologies. Some items are tiny, such as micro-electronic computing components; some are huge, including 73 aircraft. They are held at the National Museum of Rural Life and the National Museum of Flight as well as the National Museum of Scotland and National Museums Collection Centre.
These collections represent not only the development of scientific concepts and technical details but also the historical and cultural significance of science, medicine and technology, and their impact on people and the environment.
What we do
Science and Technology stories
- Discover
Memories of Nobles Amusements
In May 2024, National Museums Scotland recorded local memories of Nobles Amusements in Portobello, Edinburgh.Nobles Amusements has been a source of family entertainment for over a century. In the 1960s it made way for a new era of games… - Discover
10 video games with Scottish connections
Scotland is home to some of the most innovative and influential game makers.From the invention of the ZX Spectrum computer in the 1980s, to world-building influenced by the Scottish landscape, Scotland can be found in many corners of the… - Discover
Sir James Black: the pioneering Scottish scientist who won the Nobel Prize
Sir James Black was one of the greatest Scottish scientists of the modern era. His work in medicine and pharmacology has improved the quality of life for millions of people around the world.
