Science enquiries and NHM Consulting

Often, enquirers require more than just a specimen identification, and so our replies are enhanced by further information supplied either as a specific written answer, or as one of the information sheets that we have developed in response to common queries.

If required, NHM Consulting can usually provide additional, more detailed, scientific or other technical information. For an appropriate charge, our specialist laboratories and facilities may be employed to provide mineral analyses, as well as molecular, biochemical and other investigations NHM Consulting can provide confidential and authoritative identification and advisory services for a wide range of clients including:

• the food industry and retailers
• customs officers, importers and shipping agents
• health authorities, public analysts, laboratories, veterinary practices, including officers requiring identifications of venomous or noxious species
• farmers, agriculturists, horticulturists and gardeners
• scientists, environmentalists and agencies undertaking terrestrial, marine or freshwater surveys
• the legal profession requiring expert witnesses
• forensic scientists and the police, including officers investigating evidence relating to fly larvae or the movement of contraband
• publishers requiring validation of technical content (both images and text)
• mining, petroleum, water and waste disposal industries
• material technologists, architects and other users of building stones
• auctioneers requiring information on amber, carved minerals, and natural history artefacts (Note: as part of our ethical policy we do not provide valuations of natural history material)